How to approach an understanding of the American Indian Spiritual attitudes as part of daily life Realizing the impermanence of life True respect for the earth Man's place among other beings Silence, courtesy, and mindfulness Early preparations for spiritual attainment Use of the pipe in ceremonies "We lived our religion" Tolerance, one God, and "civilization"

slide 1 of 10 The World Wisdom book  Indian Spirit  is a collection of photos of Plains Indian chiefs along with quotations taken from chiefs and sages that reflect the traditional wisdom of these now departed leaders of a remarkable people. The book was edited by Michael Fitzgerald, a writer and researcher on the spirituality of the Plains Indians. Most of the photographs, some of which have never before been published, are from his collection. The purpose of Indian Spirit is to communicate the "spirit" of the people of the Plains to us, in order that we might begin to enter their world that is now so distant from most of us in time and perspective. The photos communicate dignity, collectness, oneness with Nature, and many other characteristics, but at the root of all of these is a profound spirituality that pervaded every aspect of their thought and behavior. If anyone wishes to study the history, traditions, or thought of this great race, it is absolutely imperative that this all-encompassing spiritual outlook be recognized and understood. This slideshow will present just a few excerpts from the book in the hope that viewers will be able to find that most important stepping-stone from which to embark on a path of true discovery of the timeless "Indian Spirit."