Introduction
At a young age, I have always wanted to express myself in a way where my thoughts or story will inspire others to learn of the Hózhó way (the beauty way), or the understanding or message of the daily struggles at home or among others, or the special events that take place in homes such as celebration of life as a Native American, but instilled from two cultural perspectives, the perspective of being a “Diné woman” and “a US citizen” in a westernized civilization. Through the years, I have learned that it is difficult to express yourself, especially if one struggles with self-identity. More so when one’s life is influenced by Western ideas of a modern way of life. So, young students find themselves in a situation where they cannot express themselves. In addition, they struggle to understand others’ feelings as well. I believe that one tool that would forge connections between students, or adults and students, is poetry. Poetry does not require much as a standard way of writing. Poetry can be fun and motivation for young to older students. Here is an example of a poem that I wrote to help me understand the concept of my unit, which is Hózhó. In addition, how I utilized my mind and body to make the connection with the outside:
“Through my eyes I see the beauty before me, through my ears I hear the beauty around me, through my heart I feel the hózhó within me. Through my nose, I smell beauty among me, Through my hands, I embrace what is around me.”
Expressing oneself, especially to another, sometimes is hard. Those that have done so are more free and have open doors to speaking out for oneself. A long time ago, the Native Americans knew their way of life, and accepted their way of life. They had a sense of belonging and still do. Most Native Americans today still have their language and culture, but for some, language and culture are in danger of going extinct. Although there is competition with a “modern” way of life, changing and living through non-Native ways, people have worked hard to carry on artwork or chants to this day, such as the Navajo culture. The artwork itself has colors that are represented in the cultural perspective representing a way of life. In addition, there are many images and designs that have so much meaning to many Native Americans. Not only do images show expression, but the chants within the songs and prayers tell many stories. This altogether is a great way to express oneself through a more modern communication such as poetry. Students of all ages, especially elementary age children love to share stories and are always excited to show and tell!
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