The Confusion of Knowing

Coming into this class I felt I knew a great deal about Native American Culture. I am a practicing shaman, I have read and studied many books, and I have always been interested in the Native American struggle. Unfortunately, every time I think I know what I am talking about, I get told that I don't. Every time I think I am understanding, a Native American in a business suit and a deeply engraved scowl tells me that I am very wrong. This upsets me in ways that are difficult to describe.

I have a conflict in my mind. On one hand I wish to learn about this amazing culture. On the other hand I feel there is entirely too much whining going on and people need to organize and do something about it. I hope to put these feelings to rest in this class with the healing power of learning. I hope to learn what it is that I am missing that creates so much anger and keeps me from being at peace with this topic.