I was in a Native American Art gallery when I came across an interesting carving.   I turned to the elderly and dignified looking American Indian gentleman behind the counter and asked, “What’s the story behind this?”  He took it reverently in his hands.  His voice was deep and calm… soothing.  “This… is in honor of a great woman.”  The music in the store played quietly as he told his story.  “She was married to the chief of our Cherokee tribe.  When her husband was killed in battle she picked up his weapon and led the Cherokee charge against the Creek.  From that day forward she was known as the “Warwoman.”  He gently set the piece back in its place.  “Later in life she became a “Beloved Woman”, and a member of the Cherokee council.  She was a woman of great courage and wisdom.”  Continue reading →