RE_3240_104

Welcome Gloria and Joe!

Hello Everyone,
Again, thanks for completing your surveys! Let me know when you begin the reading!
I found a wonderful web site for you to explore:
http://www.oyate.org/aboutus.html
See what you think!
Also, please check out author Joseph Bruchac's web site:

http://www.josephbruchac.com/

Again, welcome Joe and Gloria!
Dr. Frye

Hi Joe and Gloria! I’ve begun reading Geronimo and so far there are two great things about Apache culture that stand out to me. First I’ve enjoyed the descriptive story telling. I love when Willie stops and reminisces about stories that Geronimo had told him in the past. I have a question though. During the train ride he talks about how stories are only told during the winter. Does this mean that all stories are only told in the winter or is it okay to tell children stories in the summer if they need to learn a lesson? Also I love the similes used in this book. They are all so detailed and centered on nature, for example when he says, “It was as hot in that room as a mountain lion’s breathe.” The second thing I’ve noticed about Apache culture from the book is how honest and generous Native Americans are. There are points in the book when Geronimo and others are nicer to the White Eyes soldiers than they would ever be to them. The Apache’s even fed the soldiers instead of themselves in certain instances. Also they kept their word. This is very impressive to me. I can tell that Apache Native Americans really put others before themselves and that is an admirable trait.

Hi Joe and Gloria!

It is so wonderful to have you share your experiences and stories on our blog. I'm grealty appreciative of ya'll taking the time to blog with our class. I am so interested in hearing what you have to say about your culture and Geronimo. I am actually American Indian. I'm apart of the Sappony Tribe which is located in Roxboro, North Carolina. We are a small/medium size tribe that is located on the border between Person County, NC and Halifax County, VA, we live in what is called the "High Plains" community. Our tribe consist of about 850 members..thats the number on the roll..there are more. I take great pride in my heritage and love to share my knowledge with others about American Indians. There are so many misconceptions and steroetypes that the media portray to our young and youth that they really sometimes don't understand what its like to be Native or anything about our culture. If you would like my tribes website is www.sappony.org, feel free to look on the website and learn more about us. Again, thanks for participating in this and I'm excited to hear what you have to share.

Krystal

Dá nzho (Hello, Greetings),

Joe and Gloria Beltran say hello to Dr. Frye’s class. Joe and I have been reading the book “Geronimo” with much interest. Joe and I belong to the Apache Nation.

Joe’s mother was full blood Apache born near the San Carlos Reservation in Arizona. However, he is not certain if she was of the San Carlos or Chiricahua Apache band.

I am Chiricahua Apache on my mother side. My grandfather’s father, on my mother’s side, was from the Chihene (Red Paint) band of the Chiricahua located in the Southwest region of New Mexico. My grandfather’s mother was from the Bedonkohe band of the Chiricahua. She was from Geronimo’s band.

My grandmother’s mother, on my mother’s side, was also Chihene. My grandmother’s father was French Canadian. He was in the U.S. Cavalry and fought in the Indian Wars in New Mexico. We have always wondered how a U.S. Cavalry soldier that fought in the Indian Wars against the Apache ended up marrying an Apache.

On my father’s side, I am Apache but don’t know from what band. His mother and father passed away before I was born; therefore, I never got the opportunity to talk with them about their ancestry.

Joe and I look forward to discussing “Geronimo” with you. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with us. We will do our best to answer your questions.

I have really enjoyed reading this book so far. I like the way it is told in the form of a story like it would be passed down from one member of the tribe to another. I think it gives the reader a feeling of being included into the culture for at least the time when they are reading the book rather than being an outsider looking in. The imagery I have seen has also been so descriptive and related to the earth and nature and refers to things that Native Americans would most likely have experienced. There are also so many other forms of figurative language, such as the onomatopoeia found on page 120 of the “CLACK-CLACK” of the train wheels. I think it would be a great exercise for a class to review figurative language by writing down the different examples and identifying what they are as they were reading the book. I have learned so much about Apache life and culture from this book. I especially liked the section from pages 66 to 73 where the cultural differences between the “White Eyes” and the Apaches are discussed. There were so many opposite beliefs such as how they felt about gold, how the threats of Skinny Yellow Hair made the Apaches feel and their different belief systems.

I am so glad that you could join us and give us some insight while we read Geronimo! First of all, I am pretty ashamed that I did not know more about Geronimo before I began this book. I had no idea about his accomplishments or importance in history and I am disappointed that I was so ignorant! This book has given me more insight into his life as a great warrior and spiritual leader while also helping me understand more about the Apache people. One thing that I found interesting about the Apache people is that they seem to show a lot of respect to women. For example, Lozen, who can foresee the future, is shown extreme respect by her tribe. The book says that she "was truly the equal of any man in battle". I find it very interesting that her status as a woman does not hold her back in any way. Also, another thing that I learned is that many Native Americans tell stories by telling other stories! I think that this book is an example of that because the author is trying to tell the reader about Geronimo's capture and trip on the train, but he reflects back to the events that have happened before the capture so that we can better understand who the kind of person that Geronimo is. I am glad that I am learning more about the Apache people and I know that I will continue to encounter more interesting things as I delve further into the book!

I just wanted to say hello to Joe and Gloria and thank you for reading along with us and participating in our blogging. I am really excited to hear what you guys have to say and your reactions to the book. I am ashamed to say I had never heard of Geronimo before and I know little about Apache people but hopefully that will all change after reading and talking with you guys. I have started reading Geronimo and it is very interesting. I love the way the author tells stories through other stories to get across to us what he wants us to know. When I think of people getting mistreated, Indians do not really come to mind. After reading the first few chapters, I realized I’m way wrong. After reading so far I am curious about a few things. Joe and Gloria, on page 34, it says “We Apaches value the truth. We teach our children from their youngest years that true talk is a great value,” so I was just wondering if either of you or both of you were raised and brought up on the same value of truth? Also, do you know if there is a specific reason why the apache people called the soldiers White Eyes? One other thing I wanted to know was if either of you were told the wagon train story from chapter five when you were younger? Thanks again Joe and Gloria for taking your time to spend with us and I look forward to reading more and finding out more about you guys.

Hello to Gloria & Joe! Thanks so much for participating in this blog. I'm sure I'm going to learn a great deal with your help. It's taking me quite a while to get into this book. But many more questions will come soon as I get deeper into the text. Looking forward to blogging with you both!

I was not sure what I was about to get myself into when I opened this book. I will have to admit that I had no clue who Geronimo was. I still and trying to tie some loose ends together but I think i understand the basics of him. Anyways about the novel. At first i was not very thrilled with reading the book because it was just different from what i am use to. Now that i am further along i really enjoy it. I think that is because the set up of the novel. The way the story is being told. The boy is very proud of his heritage and seems to want to tell everyone about his life but in a fun way. Now do not get me wrong this book is not on a fun subject but the form of writing makes the story more interesting then just a factual book. When reading i related this event to the holocaust in someways. Ways like the train ride, not being feed appropriately, knowing that they cannot be heading to a safe place but to a place of death, and the fact that the Apache tribe was the victim of the "White Eyes". Also the way the apaches love to share stories of their family, friends, and ancestors is always heart warming because i love to here other stories and see just how different people are but in reality not one way is right. Also it seems that the Apache Indians have judged the "White Eyes" seemed to be true and correct. As in they said that "White Eyes" seem to fear death and that is because some do not truly believe in a higher place. When the Apache Indians do not want to die but they are not afraid to die because they believe in a higher place. I mean i personally agree with that statement but that is my personal opinion. I have just found this novel interesting and I do not have to force myself to read it. I do however must find a quite place so i can completely concentrate so i do not get confused with all the characters.

Hi Joe and Gloria!

I've really enjoyed this book so far. Before reading this, I had never heard of Geronimo. I'm very excited to get further in the book and find out more about him. I like the point-of-view the story is written in. I think it gives the reader a closer look at Apache culture coming from Geronimo's "grandson". The author uses so much imagery and descriptive words when describing the horrible train ride. I could really picture what it was like. I have enjoyed the short stories the narrarator has shared. I find it to be really sad what all of the Apaches had to go through. They seemed like such honest, caring people. I can't wait to read more!

I am so excited that you both will be taking part in our discussions about this book. When I first began to read the book I will admit I was not happy. I couldnt seem to get motivated in the book mainly because I had no history about Geronimo. Thats when I put the book down and did a little research on my own. As a future teacher I would assume students would have to do the same in some way shape or form. I kept getting confused as to how the story was being told. It seemed as if he would jump from story to story so the idea of writing down the characters as they came across in the book was helpful. Out of curiosity have you Joe and Gloria been able to read this book? And if so or if not I am just interested in hearing your experiences or stories that have been told to you.

I want to welcome Joe and Gloria to our discussion. I am looking forward to hearing what you have to say. I have to say that I have never heard of Geronimo before or his accomplishments. I have had a hard time getting into this story because it isn't a type of book I generally like to read. I am hoping that I will become more interested in this book the more I read. I also hope to learn a lot more about Geronimo and Apache people. I found it very interesting that this story is told by Geronimo's "grandson". We get to have a more personal account of Geronimo since it comes from his "grandson". While reading this story I have gotten confused because it seems like a bunch of different stories. I am hoping that we can hear some stories from Joe and Gloria that relate to what we are reading.

Hi Joe and Gloria! Thank you so much for taking part in our discussions! I never really knew much about Geronimo before this reading, and I am glad to be learning about all he contributed to our history. What I have read so far has already changed the way I look at the history of Native Americans. The only thing I know about Geronimo is the shout when people jump off of things and yell: "Geronimoooooo!!!!!!". I am curious to see if this comes from this Geronimo. One thing that stuck out in my mind was that they called black soldiers "black white men". This is making the black people just like white people, which I am sure they did not think of themselves as at this time. I am looking forward to discussing this book with everyone!

To Joe and Gloria: How has, if in any way, your heritage affected your daily lives in any way or in society?

Hi Gloria and Joe!!! I am so excited that you are going to be blogging with our class during Geronimo. I have finished the first part of the book, and I absolutely love it! I love the focus that is put on family in the book. The ties between Geronimo and the other tribe members are so close and important. I admire the respect that is common among the Native American culture. I feel that everyone respects the elders within the tribes, they respect each other, and they respect themselves. I feel that Americans as a whole are very disrespectful. The majority of the youth of today have no respect for their parents, let alone themselves. Parents are not viewed as people with knowledge and life experience, but they are viewed as blockades for children just "trying to have fun" and live their lives. I feel that an importance on family should be instilled back into the lives and habits of Americans. I feel that if we cared more about the whole community of people instead of ourselves, we as a nation would be in a better state today. Family is family, something that should be cherished; not degraded and destroyed as it is being today.

Hello to Joe and Gloria! I am so glad that you could join us this week while we blog and am looking forward to your insights on Geronimo. So far I am halfway through the story and I love it. The reading goes by pretty fast and the story is interesting. It is nice to read a book about a culture as rich as the Native Americans. There could not have been a greater narrartor picked for this book. Having Gerinimo's grandson was interesting to have telling this story. He was very insightful to everything that was going on. Once again, I look forward to talking with you throughout the week.

First I would just like to say "Welcome" to our forum and thank you so much for taking the time to blog with us. It will be a very enlightening experience to learn from you both as you answer our questions while we read "Geronimo". I actually have a question that you may or may not be able to answer. There is a reference made about Ussen, the Life Giver. I was wondering if you knew anything about Ussen and could share with us? I am assuming, by his name, that he is a god or the God of the Apache tribe. Please tell us what you know of their religion and also about your own.

Welcome to our blog Joe and Gloria, we are excited about speaking to you both! Now that I am done with the first half of the book, I became very interested in cultural differences that exists between different Apache bands. Throughout the book, I really liked Mr. Wratten's character. The bond that he formed between the Apaches and himself was truly incredible. I believe he felt as if he were a part of their band and that Geronimo was able to sense this and therefore trusted him as their translator. I knew absolutely nothing about Geronimo before I read this book. So far I have found out that he had a lot of resentment for Mexicans due to them killing his first wife, kids and mother. I find this odd because the book mentioned how Geronimo came from a peaceful tribe and at one time wanted peace with the Mexicans. If you have any thoughts on this please let me know and thank you again for blogging with us!

Thanks for all the great comments and questions. Joe and I are thrilled to be part of your learning experience about Geronimo. We hope we have answered your questions satisfactorily and we look forward to more questions and comments from you.

KRYSTAL STEWART
Joe and I are happy to see that you are part of this class and that you are Native American. We know that there are many similarities among the native peoples. We have found this to be true in meeting many people from various tribes at powwows and other Native American events.

One of the advantages of this class and its blog is to inform others of the culture of the Native Americans. This is one good way to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes. In addition, you are a great example of what a true Native American is. Keep up the good work.

We will certainly go into the website of your tribe. We love reading about other Native American cultures and traditions. It confirms as to how much alike our customs and ways are.

MEGAN SNYDER
It was the custom for stories to be told at night around a campfire throughout the year. The winter season just brought added closeness to the families since it was an excellent time for discussion and stories. Storytelling continues to this day.

Back in the days of the “Ancient Ones” and Geronimo, there was no written way to preserve the history and the ways of “Inde” (the People). The only means of preserving the richness of this history was by storytelling. These stories were repeated nightly, especially to the children in order for them to memorize the history and hand it down to the next generation. Because of this, our culture and history has not been lost.

Honesty was and is a common trait among the Apache people. We were also taught to put others needs before ours. To be generous with what we have. It’s common for an Apache to give away a personal belonging to someone that has admired that item. We have seen Apache’s give away jewelry, items of clothing, blankets and many other things only because someone admired that belonging.

CANDACE CARPENTER
Joe and I are glad to see that you are enjoying reading Geronimo. The Apache are very closely connected to the Earth, the Four Directions and Nature. We are all part of the “circle of life”.

The section about “Skinny Yellow Hair” and his gesture of the finger across the neck had a very personal and emotional meaning to me (Gloria). My grandfather always told us that we were related to Mangas Coloradas. Mangas had a brother named “Torres”. My grandfather and his father were from that Torres line.

I also want to set the book straight. Mangas Coloradas was not killed in Pinos Altos. He met with the soldiers at Fort McLane and was killed there. Fort McLane is about 20 miles southeast of Pinos Altos.

ASHLEY GARBRICK
Joe and I have found the book to be very interesting even though it is a novel based on fact and fiction. The Apache believed that gold, silver, turquoise and other valuable stones were very sacred. That they helped in spiritual healings and protection. The Apache did not put a monetary value to these stones.

ELIZABETH KIRK
We look forward to your comments and questions.

HEATHER GLOVER
We are glad that you are enjoying reading Geronimo. To answer your question about us being taught the “value of truth”, the answer is, “Yes”. We have also instilled the value of truth to our children.

To answer your question as to why the Apache called the soldiers “White Eyes, it is because the Apache had never seen people with blue eyes before. From a certain distance, the soldiers’ eyes appeared to be all white and that is how they got the name “White Eyes”.

TAYLOR CAIRNS
Do not be ashamed. Joe and I are happy that you are now interested in Geronimo and the Apache people. We have a beautiful history. Continue to read about us.

Yes, the Apache have always had a great respect for Apache women. Women played a very big role in decision making in the days of Geronimo. We are a matriarchal society. The women in Joe’s family and mine played a big role in shaping us into who we are today. That was very obvious when my Grandmother and Joe’s mother were alive. They were truly respected women and they deserved our respect.

Hello All,
Thank you for your thoughtful comments and questions. I am learning a great deal, and I must say, with much enthusiasm, thanks to all of you! Wow, where do I begin? Just a few comments and reasons to pause…
Reread the telegram from former President Grover Cleveland. Have you ever thought about the many Native Americans that were actually prisoners-of-war, and how/why they came to be prisoners? The senseless killings and the hostility toward the native peoples puzzle me to this day. I think about the deliberate murder of the medicine man, Noche-del-Klinne (pp. 104-111) and of course the gruesome execution of Mangas Coloradas (pp. 65-73), and I just cannot help but wonder why??? More disturbing is how our own government issued these commands. Why do we fear those different from us? Can’t we be curious and sensitive without always being afraid? How does this connect with the world in which we live today?

Another observation…let me know what you think.
I love Bruchac’s creativity in shaping the character of Willie, Geronimo’s “grandson.” Regarding Willie, one of my favorite parts thus far was reading the gifts Ussen bestowed upon Willie-“that of a strong memory… and the power to be unnoticed, especially by white men.” This cleverly explains why Willie isn’t mentioned in historical references; we know that even though Willie is based on real Chiricahua boys who survived the Apache prisoner-of-war camps, as the author shared with us, Willie is fictional. But oh, what a carefully crafted character! To me, Willie helps in bringing the story to life. How do you think children will relate to Willie? I look forward to reading your thoughts.

It did bother me to find out that our government wanted to get rid of the Native Americans because they were different. I have noticed that fear is an important part of the book and one of the major differences between the cultures of the whites and Apaches. I think that as Americans we fear things that are different because of our status as a world power and the threat that our status could be altered due to a group of people different from us. In other words we have a chip on our shoulder (as a nation) and fear that our way of life might have to change. But I feel that change is part of the normal cycle of things and is required for a government and its people to remain within the current times. I know that today the people who are being feared are immigrants, especially those of Hispanic origins. I think our nation fears them because of their numbers and the fact that they are willing to work so hard for meager wages while many Americans have begun to lose their jobs to these immigrants. This trend has led to the current talks about what to do about illegal immigrants. Who knows what decision will be made but it does look like Hispanic immigrants especially those of Mexican heritage could be sent back as “prisoners” or illegals much like was done to the Apaches and many other groups of Native Americans.
I hadn’t really thought that much about the development of Willie’s character but that was a great way to incorporate him in the story without tampering with the historical references in the book. But I think that Willie is a great character who children will relate to well. He is so curious about what is going on around him and he explains what is going on so a younger reader will be able to understand. I also think that children will admire Willie for being so brave in spite of the scary circumstances surrounding him. I also thought something neat about Willie’s character is how little he judges the “White eyes” that are holding him as a prisoner. He does not fear them in the same way that the whites fear the Apaches.

Sorry for the late posting...I just wanted to thank you, Joe and Gloria, for taking time to join our blog. I loved reading about your family’s history and I think that it is fascinating that, Gloria, your great grandmother was part of Geronimo's band. One question that I do have for the two of you is, I am still trying to understand the meaning of bands and tribes. Dr. Frye explained it briefly in class, but is there any way that the two of you could explain it to me a little more in depth. Thank you again for joining our blog and look forward to your responses.

I just wanted to say hey to Joe and Gloria and thank you for taking your time to join us. I'm sorry for posting so late i had to do some catching up on my reading! So far I absolutely love this book! I find it so interesting to learn about the Apaches and the life of Geronimo. It's so hard to believe how badly the Native Americans were treated. Before reading I didn't really know much about bands and tribes of Native Americans and how they were treated by the white soldiers. I just don't understand why the "white eyes" were so cruel. I can't imagine going through something so awful. They were treated so badly. I can't believe the white men in charge killed so many people for no reason at all.

Greetings from Joe and Gloria. Thank you for the nice comments that you have sent us. Being part of this “blog” is a great experience for us.

We are glad to see that all of you are enjoying reading “Geronimo.” Joe and I are also enjoying reading the book.

We love the way that the author made the fictional character of Geronimo’s grandson so real. In reading Mr. Bruchac’s acknowledgements, the character of the grandson is based on several real Chiricahua boys who survived the Apache prisoner-of-war camps. Therefore, in a sense, the grandson in the book is a true character.

There were several comments made about the bad treatment of the Apaches by the “White Eyes.” The “big” picture is that the American government wanted the land that the Apache lived on because it was rich, prime land and the government wanted to expand its territory throughout North America according to its belief in manifest destiny.

The Apache were against having their land taken away from them because they had always lived on this land. The only way for the American Government to take the land, was to move the Apache into reservations. Many Apache bolted from the reservations, including Geronimo, because of disagreements and broken promises by the American Government.

RACHEL WARRINER

Geronimo was said to have had magical powers. That he could see into the future, walk without creating footprints, and even hold off the dawn to protect his people. Some even said that his raiding successes were due to powers given him by supernatural beings that included invulnerability to bullets.

We see him as a man that had a spiritual drive, with a deep belief that he was invincible because of a great purpose that he had. That purpose was to be free.

SARAH ROBINSON

Geronimo believed in living peacefully with the Mexicans until his wife, children, and mother were killed by the Mexican army. From that point on, he hated the Mexicans and wanted revenge for the killing of his family.

TIFFANY MEASE

Ussen is the Life Giver, Supreme Being, Creator, and Ruler of the Apache People. The Apache believe that when Ussen created them, he also created game, fruits, and grain for them to eat. That he created many different herbs to grow to restore the people’s health. That he taught where to find these herbs, and how to prepare them for medicine. That he gave them a pleasant climate and all they needed for clothing and shelter was at hand. The Apache pray to Ussen as we Christian’s pray to our Creator. To Joe and me, they are one and the same Creator.

ALEX NEOFOTIS

Glad you’re enjoying the book. We hope that you will read other books about Native Americans. It is a beautiful culture!

MANDY CECILE

Apaches, in general, are raised to respect their elders, nature, and each other. Joe and I were raised to respect our elders and those in leadership. This is something that we have passed on to our children. Our children have passed this on to their children.

EMILY JOHNSON

The way Geronimo's got his name came because of his fearless fighting in battle. During one of these fearless battles against Mexican troops, the troops began to cry out "Geronimo” because they were seeking help from their patron saint, Jerome, or “Geronimo” in Spanish. After this battle, the warriors bestowed the name of Geronimo on their fearless leader. Today, to some, this is still a battle cry.

Your question about how our heritage has affected our daily lives in any way or in society is a very good question. Joe and I were born and raised in Los Angeles, California far away from any reservation. Living in Los Angeles, our families assimilated with the White American culture. We had no problem practicing both cultures.

In my case, my grandparents moved to California in 1923. I was born in 1938 and the first of my family to be born in California. My grandfather, my mother’s father, still held on to many Apache traditional ways. He performed certain ceremonies when I was born, when my umbilical cord fell off, when I started teething, when I was ill, etc. My grandparents instilled respect, respect, respect. I still live my life by the standards they instilled in me. These teachings of my grandparents followed me in all aspects of my life.

My grandfather was a medicine man (a curandero) and many people in our neighborhood came to him when they were ill or injured. I remember many of those people that came to him and seeing him work on them in our living room. That was quite an experience.

Joe’s ancestors were from the San Carlos reservation. His mother was born in Clifton, Arizona and later she lived in Globe, Arizona. Most of the men in the family were miners. When the miles failed, the family moved to Los Angeles where Joe was born.

His family also assimilated into the population in Los Angeles. His family practiced and never forgot their Apache culture. One of Joe’s uncles was a “Gan” (Mountain Spirit) dancer in his youth.

MEAGAN CRAWFORD

We are sure that you will get into the book and learn to appreciate Geronimo’s contribution to American History.

SARA CAULDER

Yes. Joe and I are reading the “Geronimo” book. One story that stands out in my head that my grandfather told us was when he was around 5-6 years old; he was out in a field with his mother (she was from Geronimo’s band). That Geronimo and two or three of his men rode up on horseback; that one of Geronimo’s men leaned over, put one of his arms under my grandfather’s arms and picked my grandfather up to take him. My great-grandmother screamed, ran over to where my grandfather was and grabbed him by the legs. She and this man had a tug of war with my grandfather. Because this man didn’t have a good hold on my grandfather, my great-grandmother was able to pull my grandfather away from him. She ran away and Geronimo and his men rode off.

My grandfather didn’t know why Geronimo wanted him. We have always wondered why Geronimo wanted my grandfather. We’ll never know.

My grandmother told us about some of the Apache raids in Pinos Altos when she was a young girl. She was born in 1878.
Her household was never attacked. I guess because the Apache raiding knew that her mother was Apache.

MELANIE WRIGHT

The author has described the story in a very clear, beautiful way. You almost see yourself riding in the train next to Geronimo. You really feel the injustices that were committed against the Apache by the “White Eyes.” I think that when one doesn’t understand another person’s culture, it is very easy to be cruel to that person.

DANA PACKARD/STEPHANIE FISHER

The Apache are divided into many band divisions and clans within those bands. Apache clans usually take their names from the natural features of localities, never from animals. The main Apache divisions are the Chiricahua Apache, San Carlos Apache, White Mountain Apache, Jicarillas Apache, and the Kiowa Apache. There are many sub-divisions and clans.

I am from the Chiricahua Apache Tribe, Chihene, or Red Paint Band, and from the Chokonni (Juniper) clan. Joe is from the San Carlos Tribe, but he doesn’t know what band or clan.

We thought you would be interested in reading this Code of Ethics. Let us know what you think.

(Gloria) Many of these ethics were taught to me by my grandmother. She was a wonderful person and greatly loved by our family, friends and neighbors. She still guides me in many of the decisions I make. I say, "Grandma, how would you handle this situation?" And the answer always comes to me.

Native American
Code of Ethics

1.Each morning upon rising and each evening before sleeping, give thanks for the life within you and for all life, for the good things the Creator has given you and for the opportunity to grow a little more each day. Consider your thoughts and actions of the past day and seek for the courage and strength to be a better person. Seek for the things that will benefit others (everyone).
2.Respect: Respect means "To feel or show honor or esteem for someone or something; to consider the wellbeing of, or to treat someone or something with high esteem or courtesy.” Showing respect is a basic law of life.
oTreat every person from the tiniest child to the oldest elder with respect at all times.
oSpecial respect should be given to Elders, Parents, Teachers, and Community Leaders.
oNo person should be made to feel "put down" by you; avoid hurting other hearts, as you would avoid a deadly poison.
oTouch nothing that belongs to someone else (especially Sacred Objects) without permission, or an understanding between you.
oRespect the privacy of every person; never intrude on a person's quiet moment or personal space.
oNever walk between people who are conversing.
oNever interrupt people who are conversing.
oSpeak in a soft voice, especially when you are in the presence of Elders, strangers, or others to whom special respect is due.
oDo not speak unless invited to do so at gatherings where Elders are present (except to ask what is expected of you, should you be in doubt).
oNever speak about others in a negative way, whether they are present or not.
oTreat the earth and all of her aspects as your mother. Show deep respect for the mineral world, the plant world, and the animal world. Do nothing to pollute our Mother; rise up with wisdom to defend her.
oShow deep respect for the beliefs and religion of others.
oListen with courtesy to what others say, even if you feel that what they are saying is worthless. Listen with your heart.
oRespect the wisdom of the people in council. Once you give an idea to a council meeting it no longer belongs to you - it belongs to the people. Respect demands that you listen intently to the ideas of others in council and that you do not insist that your idea prevail. Indeed, you should freely support the ideas of others if they are true and good, even if those ideas are quite different from the ones you have contributed. The clash of ideas brings forth the Spark of Truth.
3.Once a council has decided something in unity, respect demands that no one speak secretly against what has been decided. If the council has made an error, that error will become apparent to everyone in its own time.
4.Be truthful at all times, and under all conditions.
5.Always treat your guests with honor and consideration. Give of your best food, your best blankets, the best part of your house, and your best service to your guests.
6.The hurt of one is the hurt of all; the honor of one is the honor of all.
7.Receive strangers and outsiders with a loving heart and as members of the human family.
8.All the races and tribes in the world are like the different colored flowers of one meadow. All are beautiful. As children of the Creator, they must all be respected.
9.To serve others, to be of some use to family, community, nation and the world is one of the main purposes for which human beings have been created. Do not fill yourself with your own affairs and forget your most important talks. True happiness comes only to those who dedicate their lives to the service of others.
10.Observe moderation and balance in all things.
11.Know those things that lead to your wellbeing, and those things that lead to your destruction.
12.Listen to and follow the guidance given to your heart. Expect guidance to come in many forms: in prayer, in dreams, in times of quiet solitude and in the words and deeds of wise Elders and friends.

I love those Code of Ethics, those are really motivating. Not to mention anybody could learn something from at least one of them. I like how so many of the codes revolve around respect. A teacher told me once that when developing their classroom rules, they came up with only two. Respect others, and respect yourself. They said everything in the classroom could be brought back to those two rules, and it’s true. For example if Billie hits John then Billie is in trouble because he broke the first rule of respecting others. My favorite two rules from the Code of Ethics were: “All the races and tribes in the world are like the different colored flowers of one meadow. All are beautiful. As children of the Creator, they must all be respected.” Not only does this have a good lesson but it has great imagery and a beautiful nature reference. The second one was, “Listen to and follow the guidance given to your heart. Expect guidance to come in many forms: in prayer, in dreams, in times of quiet solitude and in the words and deeds of wise Elders and friends.” I like this one because it talks about how you can obtain guidance from many different things.

I really like the code of ethics because if we all went by them we would live in such a better world. Not only a better world but everyone would seem to have a better outlook on life. I see that respect plays a huge role in your life. I absolutely love that! Respect is one of the key things for people. I do have a question and it might be to personal. But you comment about a Creator... do yall have a certain religion or do you each have your own belief? and if it is different than Christian, Jewish, Islam... what is it like if you do not mind me asking. Sorry if this in anyway offends you.

The Native Americans code of ethics really touched me. They make me realize how sad the world is today and how much better the world would be if everyone would follow these ethics or at least create some of their own. The Native Americans lived by these ethics and were good people. The respect each other and truly care for each other. When I was reading these ethics, it made me think about the trip my dad just took to Honduras. He said that the people there were the kindest, nicest people he has ever met. They were thankful for everything when they have nothing. A smile could make their day. My dad said they lived by their own set of rules and really respect their people and the others they meet. The rules they live by are probably like the Native Americans code of ethics. Both groups understand the importance of life and how to treat people. If Americans could appreciate what we have, respect each other, and follow these ethics, this place we live in would be such a better place. My favorite of the code of ethics that everyone should strive to live by is number one, “Each morning upon rising and each evening before sleeping, give thanks for the life within you and for all life, for the good things the Creator has given you and for the opportunity to grow a little more each day. Consider your thoughts and actions of the past day and seek for the courage and strength to be a better person. Seek for the things that will benefit others (everyone)”. Americans need to be thankful for just being here and for everything we have. We need to always consider what it takes to be a better person and how important it is to put others before ourselves.

I really like the code of ethics followed by the Native Americans. They're very ideal. As I read them, I gained a sense of peace and balance. If I followed by those guidelines, I would be so much more organized and at peace with myself and others. Not to be prejudice or stereotypical, anytime I've ever seen a Native American on movies or shows, (I know movies and tv shows in no way depict how people REALLY are) they always seem so calm and in touch with themselves. Maybe these codes of ethics help them maintain such a serene way of handling things. I know in our society today, people just fly off at the mouth with no respect, and they think they're "group" is better than the others. I love these codes and wish everyone would follow them. The world would be a much better place.

As I finished reading Geronimo and read the Code of Ethics that Joe and Gloria posted, I realized that throughout the novel all the Apache people wanted was to live in peace. I just don't understand why we could not just let the Apaches be. It frustrates me that the "White Eyes" did not fully understand the culture of the Apaches and many people died because of this ignorance. For example, the author speaks of rumors that were told to the Americans about Geronimo. The rumors stated that Geronimo wanted to attack the Americans. Also, Geronimo heard many rumors about the "White Eyes" as well. These rumors created a sense of mistrust between the Americans and the Apaches. I think that each group must have felt unsafe and unsure about what would happen. These two groups could have lived in peace if they would have just known a little more about each other's cultures. It breaks my heart to think that Geronimo and many others wanted to live in peace so badly that they were willing to give up their culture in favor of a strange one that had no relevance to their past lives. It was the only way out that they could see, and I hate that they had to give up so much to live in peace.

Just to comment on the code of ethics Joe and Gloria posted for us, I would just like to say how wonderful that code truly is. I am a firm believer of respect to all people, not necessarily any one type of person. I think society today has become so self-centered to the point that everything must be beneficial to yourself before it is beneficial to anyone else. I love how your code of ethics insists upon showing respect and that it is a "basic law of life". I also love how it says to "avoid hurting other hearts, as you would avoid a deadly poison". I think that if everyone could live just the tiniest bit by this code of ethics the world would be so much better. Thank you for sharing that with us!

Thanks for posting the code of ethics. I can't get over how they are basically the same things that were taught and enstilled in me by the elders of my tribe. I respect and try and live by those just as my elders did and the people pf my tribe today. I can hear my grandmother telling me to"Each morning upon rising and each evening before sleeping, give thanks for the life within you and for all life, for the good things the Creator has given you and for the opportunity to grow a little more each day. Consider your thoughts and actions of the past day and seek for the courage and strength to be a better person. Seek for the things that will benefit others (everyone). " It almost makes me speechless because it's nice to know that other tribes share and respect common ethics. Many people who aren't Native really can't grasps just how important those ethics are to us. I have the upmost respect for my elders and my gaga(grandmother) who just recently passed away lived and breathed to do for others."To serve others, to be of some use to family, community, nation and the world is one of the main purposes for which human beings have been created. Do not fill yourself with your own affairs and forget your most important talks. True happiness comes only to those who dedicate their lives to the service of others." I just can't express the excitment I have for my fellow classmates to get an idea what its truly to be Native and raised with traditions. THANKS!!!!!
Krystal Stewart

I believe that Willie is such a smart child. He definitely brings life to this book by having the ideas and understandings if a child, but he still has so much wisdom that has been passed on to him from his culture. I really enjoy reading this book and how each story connects to the next. Children can relate to Willie by the way he seems to be aware of his surrounding situation, but question why the situations are happening. Children constantly question life and why things have to happen when they do. It helps children grow and learn how to deal with similar situations that may occur as they grow and develop into adults. Each experience in life can lead to a life long lesson to remember. I believe that Willie is able to take these experiences and look at the “big picture.” This can help children relate situations in their lives and think about what they have learned from personal experiences that may have been good or bad.

Reading the Code of Ethics that Joe and Gloria posted made me think about how impatient our society is. The ideas of respect go hand in hand with patience. By respecting other people’s ideas (whether they are right or wrong) is hard to do without expressing what you may think to be right or wrong. I will have to say, from reading the Code of Ethics it has made me more aware of respecting others and having the patience to take each day a little slower. It is hard to take time to respect and admire the things that we have. Having these two qualities can really make life much more enjoyable due to the simplest things life has to offer.

While reading the Code of Ethics I also thought of how the white people portrayed such disrespect to the Native Americans and how impatient the white people are in the book “Geronimo.” It is so sad to think of how the Apaches were so willing to be helpful, yet the white people were so dishonest. By reading this book it makes you really question the type of person you are and how others perceive you. I really enjoyed reading about the Code of Ethics for the Native Americans and it really helped me analyze some of my own actions and thoughts. So thank you Joe and Gloria…

I realized today as I was reading this book that there is a distinct difference in our culture as to the Native American culture... Patience! I want to be able to sit and read this quickly, but there are so many different names and meanings that it is really hard to skim over the term and still learn the significance of it. You really lose meaning and significance of people and events that mean so much to their story when you skim or do not take the time to digest every single word. What really made me laugh is that just as I was thinking this to myself, I came across the part where Willie said, "...but I will be brief. I know most White Eyes readers are less patient than Indians and prefer short stories that are easy to understand." Ha! It is the honest truth! I am now challenging myself to really take the time with this story to digest this information as the Indians did to make sure I see the importance of every piece and story within this novel.

"Lies from the mouths of the White Eyes seemed as certain as the sunrise each morning in the east. Even when they wrote their promises down on paper, they still did not keep them. Paper lies are even easier to burn." I think that is such a powerful statement. It is not easy to understand to some people the fight Geronimo and other American Indian Tribes put up against the settlers coming into the US. People today would do almost anything to keep their house, land, and family from being stolen and broken up. That is exactly what Geronimo was doing. It's shocking to think how they mistreated the Apache's. Some members of the Indian Tribe abandon their brothers just to still be thrown in prison. What the "White Eyes" said meant nothing because they didn't keep their promises. How hard it must have been for one not to be able to trust anyone or anything that they said. In my opinion, the "White Eyes" took Natives as fools. They knew we were people of our word and when someone made a treaty or promise they took it to be real and reliable. My ancestors soon found that be all wrong.
Krystal

The entire code of ethics is so clearly well said and laid out. Each one seemed to build upon one another and as I was reading I too was inspired. If everyone in this world could truly live by these then it would be a more peaceful place. So often everyone is looking after their owvnselves that we forget about others and the world we live in. I do see a similiarity though within the Native American code of ethics and that of our own views. But so often we dont tend to abide by respecting others. As I was reading this alot of it reminded me Christianity especially about serving others and knowing what leads to good well being and destruction. Gloria, you mention Creator and praying. Do you refer to a religion or just spirituality? I really enjoyed reading these ethics because it reminded me of all the things we too are taught growing up.

As I continued to read through Geronimo I realized how many times the Codes of Ethics that Joe and Gloria shared were mentioned. They might have not been directly referenced but they were explained by the way Willie did something or how he behaved. Such as the way that Willie explained how he prayed every morning and gave thanks for the day. The theme of respect was mentioned many times throughout the book. One of the times I thought it was most interesting was when Willie explained why many Apache men had more than one wife and how not marrying them and providing for those with no mate would have wrong. (p. 211-215) It portrayed how their different way of life and need for survival led to them marrying more than one wife. I also found it really sad when reading numbers 7 and 9 from the Code of Ethics. Both of these were observed by the Apaches and given to the “White Eyes” but they did not have it returned to them. It was such a shame that many “White Eyes” were unwilling to acknowledge a different way of life as acceptable and show them the respect they deserved. I was so happy to see that some “White Eyes” had been kind and accepting of the Apaches such as Nantan Wotherspoon and Lieutenant Capron who tried to do what they could to get better treatment of the captured Chiricahuas.

After Joe and Gloria introduced the Code of Ethics, I saw evidence of the code while completing Geronimo. I remember the narrator "Willie" waking and praising that it was a new day, and that he and the majority of his Indian family had survived. When the Apache Indians were cramped together in the camps "Willie" talked of how it was uncomfortable to be that close to another person's property, and how they did not have any privacy. He also talked of how uncomfortable it was to use the bathroom while making their journey to Florida. I loved the fact that all of the Apache Indians were respectful. They respected everything from their elders, families, women, and the earth. When the Apache Indians became part of the US Army they were delighted at the fact that the US soldiers respected them, and that the US soldiers acknowledged that they were human beings. Even though the Apache Indians were greatly demeaned and to an extent dehumanized, they were willing to look past the unjust because of the respect the White Eyes were showing the Apaches serving the US.

The Apache seemed to be such humble beings. They did not ask for much in live, just respect, their homeland, and their families to stay together. Even though traditional stereotypes categorize Indians as being "blood thirsty savages," this stereotype bests fits the Americans. They were the ones uprooting the Apache Indians and tearing their families to shreds. Geronimo has opened my eyes to a whole new perspective of Native Americans as a whole, and I am thankful for the experience and the information I gained from reading the book.

I wish that we as Americans could develop a code of ethics. Joe and Gloria mentioned that respect was a key factor to life, and I agree. I feel that if Americans could realize this truth, and adopt a code to live by, individuals could live their lives richly.

I really enjoyed reading the Code of Ethics. It seems to really inforce respect and being more concerned with others. It made me realize how bad things have gotten in the world today. Today most people are only concerned about themselves and don't respect others. If everyone went by these Codes the world would be a much friendlier and better place. This Code also contains many of the things we were taught growing up. It was nice to see these things again. While reading Geronimo it made me really sad to see how the "White Eyes" did the opposite of the Code of Ethics. Things would have been so much better if the White Eyes would have gone by the Code.

I was really interested in the code of ethics that refers to respect. I noticed all throughout Geronimo how well women were treated. Even now in our society I sometimes think that the role of women is considered less important than the role of a man. It was interesting to hear how much Apaches respected women for being life-givers. Apaches also seem to respect children as much as they would adults. Geronimo never seemed burdened by children. He welcomed them at every opportunity such as helping them grow stronger by bathing in the cold water and also he was their school disciplinarian. I know from a historic perspective that children were expected to approach growing up more as an adult than a child. It seems as if Apaches valued the role of children by letting them play.

One of the themes I picked up on throughout the novel was that mostly every "white-eye" that got to know and absorb the culture the Apaches, came to fondly respect them and have empathy for their situation. An example that truly touched me was when Lieutenant Capron was able to sympathize with the Apaches. He showed compassion by crying and admitting his respect for the Apache people. I found it so touching the extent to which the Lieutenant was able to sympathize. Even Wratten throughout the novel became absorbed with the Apache culture and was so dedicated to their cause that he abandoned his own family. I think children can learn that something that may seem scary and different at first may actually be a really positive thing or experience. Children need to learn that they must truly get to know something or someone before they judge it and put a label on it. Sometimes it is easy to accept the views of others that we respect but we must form our own opinions and realize that just because someone may be culturally or physically different they still have the same emotions. This is the lesson that was the most valuable to me from the book.

The injustice throughout this story just really gets to me! The White Eyes all think that the Indians are dumb, do not know what is best for them, and think that they know what is right and best for all of their kind. This is the argument of a lot of people, I know, but the irony is that the Native Americans were the healthiest and wisest of all people! Willie talks about how he could tell the difference in the air when traveling through the United States on the train, and it shows how dirty all of our people were to give them all of the diseases that killed them when they were assimilated into the White Eyes culture. What white person would dunk themselves multiple times into a freezing body of water every day of the winter to make sure they were clean? Our culture sure wouldn't have! The injustice their culture experienced was unfortunate to the extreme, and I feel ashamed to be associated with a culture that would treat other human beings this way. I recognize that this is the common argument made by people who experience this through readings, and I hope I can say that I would have acted with empathy for the Native Americans if I would have lived through this time in history.

This is an amazing experience for our class at least, so I can only imagine what kind of impact this novel would have on a 5th grader!

I must say i do enjoy the quotes at the beginning of every chapter because they are from all the different point of views in this book. It allows me to see other insights of what is going on. I am confused in the sense that I thought this was a novel but it seems that its not fiction. In one chapter Little Foot shares his powers and one of them is that he can be unnoticed. And because of this power he was not mentioned in factual books about his presences at these important talks with the "White Eyes". I guess what I am trying to ask is this where the fiction comes into play. As in he really was not there but these are the stories of other Apache Indians that were at those meetings?

I finished Geronimo last night and I have to say I really did like this book. I’m glad we had longer to read this book because there were so many informational little stories during each chapter. I like the way the book has an overall story but still each chapter has a different theme. The funniest part of the book is how Geronimo sells so many things to the “White Eyes” that he acts are so important. When in reality there were just cheap rings or things his wives made. I can just picture a huge greedy crowd trying to buy things from Geronimo and inside he was probably laughing. The saddest part of the book I think was the Carlisle school the children were sent to. I hate that so many young kids died while attempting to get an education. Almost all of the children that were sent there ended up passing away because of the “couching sickness,” including Willie’s first love, Katie, and Geronimo’s son. Another thing I found surprising in the book was how eager Geronimo and the others were to become “white.” I thought that they would want the exact opposite. By the end of the book I finally realized though that they were only trying to fit in with the whites because they wanted to show that they were peaceful towards them. The Apaches wanted to go back home and the only way that would be possible is if they became “white-ized” and the least amount of threat as possible. Thanks for adding to our blog Joe and Gloria! I’ve enjoyed reading your responses and posts.

After reading the code of ethics provided by Joe and Gloria, the character development of Geronimo and his fellow Native Americans was more complete for me. Especially under the code of respect. Throughout the book I wanted Geronimo or his grandson or somebody to rebel against the "White Eyes" so badly because of how they had been treating the tribesmen. I was frustrated that the Native Americans could be so forgiving and trusting of the "White Eyes" even after they had betrayed them multiple times and lied to their faces consistently. However, it is under the Apache Code of Ethics to respect and welcome all into the tribe. What I found interesting also is how the White Eyes codes of respect differ and conflict with those of the Native Americans. For example, it is a sign of respect to look at your elders or make eye contact when one is speaking to you in the White Eyes culture. However, it is a sign of great disrespect to look at one in the eyes according to the Apache codes. I think it's terrible that we tried to impose our culture through supremacy without observing their culture first. Unfortunately, white supremacy as been quite a legacy in America from it's beginnings. Similarly the African American culture has faced the same kind of prejudice and cultural shock as we thrust our superiority on them during the time of slavery. It also occurred during World War II when we relocated thousands and thousands of Japanese Americans after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It is frustrating to read about these grave inequalities that even exist in our society today. The book opened my eyes to a piece of history that I had never really been exposed to and it provided some interesting insight into the culture of Native Americans.

It has been such a great and emotional experience blogging with all of you. Joe and I will long remember the positive impact that reading Geronimo had on all of you. Before reading this book, most of you had never heard of Geronimo or the Apache. What a blessing that now that you know of Geronimo and our culture that this gained knowledge will truly impact your lives forever. We hope that you will be encouraged to read books about other Native American tribes. It is a rich culture.

We were thrilled to read your comments on the “Code of Ethics”. These Codes are very powerful. How beautiful it would be if we could all live by these codes.

Many of you commented on what a better world this would be if we all respected each other’s beliefs, customs and ways. As you read Geronimo and the Code of Ethics, it is very clear that respect played an important role in the lives of the Apache in Geronimo’s day and still today. This is evident in all Native American cultures.

Joe and I hope that you will consider putting into practice this Code of Ethics into your own lives. This is a wonderful legacy to pass down to your descendents.

A wonderful Native American quote by a Shante Sioux goes like this, "We are truly unique things because we are the descendants of our ancestors and we are the ancestors of our descendents. You are future ancestors and as such, carry a powerful responsibility to your descendents.

Ashley and Sara both had questions regarding our beliefs. We are Christians; believe in one God, and the Holy Trinity. We offer our prayers to Father God/Jesus/Ussen. To us, they are one and the same.

We have a daily calendar that each day offers a different name for God. Some of these names are, God of Your Ancestors, Mighty Warrior, Creator, Spirit. Ussen translates to all of these names. Our God has many names.

Ussen bless you all. May he guide your paths in the direction you have chosen.

Carlisle Indian Industrial School
http://www.indians.org/welker/geronimo.htm

http://home.epix.net/~landis/histry.html

I am pretty emotional as I write this entry; I feel so indebted to Gloria and Joe for sharing so much of themselves with us. If you are reading this my friends, the Beltrans, please know how grateful and thankful I am. You have touched my life in ways you will never know. Also, you have encouraged me, as a human being and an educator, to become more aware and interested in Native Peoples; I thank you! I am posting a few of the photos from your trip to Cross Mountain in Pinos Altos (P.A.), New Mexico-your home!
I hope you all enjoy these!
Here is what Gloria writes:

For those of you that don't know, The cross at Cross Mountain was erected by the residents of P.A. and the Apache. It was a form of a "peace treaty". As long as the cross was up and visible, that meant that there was peace between the residents and the Apache. The original cross was made of wood. When the cross started to fall apart, people from P.A. replaced the wooden cross with one made of medal piping.
I've also attached a picture of a battle site between the Apache and Buffalo Soldiers. The battle site is on the way up to Cross Mountain. It was eerie standing right where you know many Apache fought and died.

The book Geronimo and the book The Bracelet had several similarities, but the main difference was the ethnicity of the people who were oppressed. They both gave a perspective that most white Americans have not heard before. I feel embarrassed to have been so naive about the people that have been oppressed by the white people. I believe that both of the books would be great to use in the classroom with both of the main character's being children. This will help the children in my class relate to the character and understand and remember the things that they read about. This are both great books and I can't wait to use them in my classroom!