Black Elk

Heháka Sápa, or Black Elk, was a powerful and influential figure in the Oglala Lakota tribe. As a wichása wakhán, or "holy man," and heyoka, or "contrary," Black Elk possessed a unique perspective on the world around him, and his teachings continue to inspire and inform us today.

The quote by Black Elk, is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of all things. At the center of the Universe, according to Black Elk, is the Great Spirit, a concept that has long been part of traditional indigenous spiritual practices. This belief acknowledges that everything in the world is connected, and that we’re all part of a larger, universal whole.

The idea of a universal spirit or energy that exists at the center of the Universe is not unique to indigenous cultures. Many spiritual and religious traditions hold beliefs about the interconnectedness of all things, and about a sacred force that permeates every aspect of existence. However, what sets Black Elk’s words apart is the idea that this center is everywhere, and that it lives within each of us.

When we think about the Universe, we often imagine vast expanses of space, filled with galaxies and planets that are far beyond our reach. The idea that at the center of all of this is a sacred presence might seem abstract or difficult to grasp. But what Black Elk is really saying is that this spirit exists within each and every one of us, accessible no matter who or where we are.

This idea has profound implications for how we understand our place in the world. If the center of the Universe is within us, then we are, in a sense, co-creators of the world around us. We have the power to influence our environment and affect change, not just in our own lives, but in the lives of others as well. We are not separate from the natural world, but an integral part of it.

This interconnectedness also means that we are responsible for the well-being of our fellow humans, animals, and the planet as a whole. If we are all part of the same universal whole, then we must treat each other with respect and compassion. We must work to preserve and protect our environment, and to ensure that future generations can continue to thrive on this Mother Earth.

The words of Black Elk remind us that the center of the Universe is not a far-off place, but is instead exists within each and every one of us. We are all connected, and each of us has a role to play in creating a better world for ourselves and for future generations. By recognizing this interconnectedness and cultivating compassion and empathy for all beings, we can create a world that is truly worthy of the Great Spirit which underlies and informs all things.

By John Gonzalez