Chairman's Corner | |
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From: Desert Breeze Newsletter, Vol 3:1 Dan'zho, I hope that all is well with all who read this. Recently myself, Robert Soto and Juan Solis represented the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas in a cultural exchange with the State of Coahuila and the Federal Government of Mexico. The conference was held January 9-10, 2009 in Musquiz, Coahuila Mexico. I cannot express properly with words, the great feeling of welcome that we experienced. To be welcomed into a land where our ancestors lived and worshiped was overwhelming. We were welcomed by caring and wonderful hosts who were anxious to form the links of friendship that were lost. We were treated as if we were long lost relatives. While there we were able to walk the mountains where our ancestors walked. We were taken to the headwaters of the Sabinas River and taken to the old camp area where the N'de gathered before they would go into Musquiz. To walk in the mountains where our ancestors walked. To drink from the waters where the women gathered to take water for the Tribe. The feeling was exhilarating. To smell the air and feel the touch of generations past. All these moments of past recollection mixed with current reality made us as one with our ancestors. I write these words hoping that all who read them feel the feeling we had. Also attending with us were Nancy Minor and her husband David, David Ghore, Bill Larew and Jose Medina Gonzalez Davila. Without these individuals the cultural exchange would not have been possible. David Minor was a great guide for us on the road; David Ghore did a fantastic job of translating and without him I would have been completely lost. Bill did a wonderful and highly emotional rendition of Mckenzie's Raid at Remolino. To hear and feel his words brought tears to many eyes. Nancy ("The Professora") Minor who was a Shining Star provided historical commentary that brought two peoples together. And finally, Jose Medina, a most gracious host and guide. The work that he is providing is invaluable. While in Musquiz all of us spoke many words and many words filled with feeling and beauty were exchanged. We wish to thank all the many friends who shared their time and knowledge. We give a special thanks to the Mayor of Musquiz and his representatives. The meal at El Presidio on Saturday was most excellent. Each of us was overwhelmed by the Musquiz Cultural Center. What a beautiful home for people to gather in and celebrate all the wonders around them. We all felt the magic that can only come when all things are right, and within this home we felt all things were right. For Yolanda and Silvia, beauty follows where you walk and light shines from the path upon which God leads you. All of the blessings our peoples have shared in the past will once again blossom in the heart of Musquiz and with the Soul of Coahuila. This coming together of the Lipan Apache in the Santa Rosa Mountains is the fruit of your labors. Hopefully we will celebrate this Friendship once again very soon. Bernard Barcena Chairman, Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas | |