When people ask about how much Indian blood I have, I usually quip that it is so far back in my family history if I sneezed too hard I could lose it altogether. That usually dispels the issue. The truth is I've never personally traced my ancestry. I was told we were part Cherokee when I was in my 20s. It wasn't until my 30s though, when Cherokee "coincidences" started cropping up all over the place, that I gave much thought to it.  That's why I like the Diane Glancy quote (above) so much.

Tenacious is a good word for describing the Cherokee, as it is for most Indian peoples. Other words which come to mind for the Cherokee are persevering, adaptable, and survivors. The Cherokee story is pretty incredible. I'm glad it has become a significant part of my journey. Cherokee Bill's Trade Center is indeed an actual small gift shop located at 417 South Bridge Street in Grand Ledge. But, it is more than just a place to buy "stuff." It is primarily a place to learn about the history, heritage, creativity, and spirituality of the Cherokees, and other "First Nations."  It is a place to find "respect" and "tolerance" and "truth."  Some of this story, as much as I can, I shall share in these pages as well.
 

CBTC Mission Statement
 

To teach the genuine history
of the Cherokee Nation

To assist those embracing
traditional indigenous (Indian)
philosophies as Christians

To expose the public to the
artistic, spiritual, and historical
gifts of the Cherokee, and other
First Nations peoples

Cherokee Bill
highlights and options

Cherokee History:
Text & Photo Timeline

Cherokee Historical Sites

Gift Shop

Cherokee Heritage
and Arts display

Quotes & Philosophies

CBTC History

Cherokee Links
 

At the Teaching & Sharing Center in Grand Ledge, I have a good selection of Cherokee reference materials (books, videos, etc) available for use on site.  In both Scrapbook Photos and Poetry & Pictures Books you will find Cherokee topics as well. I used to clearly delineate the categories on those pages. I no longer separate my learning and respect for traditional First Nations perspectives from my Christian walk. It is all one journey. It is my journey. You too have a path that Spirit has given to you. Indeed, if you, like I, were born in this country, you are a native American. The same earth we walk upon supported those before us and our culture reflects heavily their influence.  Whether you are connected by lineage to one of the First Nations, or simply awakening to a greater respect for our indigenous ancestors, I hope, in some small way, that what I share here and elsewhere can help you to find your way to fulfillment.