Walking Spirit in a Native Way

THE DREAM A few years ago, I had a dream.  I lived in a place that was at the foot of a great mountain and was part of a public domain. My work in that place was to tell stories and care for the people who would come to visit. The warden of that place gave me an area to develop programs. In that area I had several picnic tables and a fire pit. It was a beautiful spot in an open field looking up unto the mountain.  I would greet guests who came to hike or camp and invite them to the fire to hear stories at that place. In time I asked the warden if it would be all right to invite some of my friends to come weekly to have a circle. The warden thought that would be fine, so we started having small gatherings. Eventually I asked if I could put in a lodge for ceremony and I explained to the warden what a sweat lodge is and how it would be a help to show people what Native people use for a healing lodge. I further indicated to the warden the lodge would only be used by those t...

bookishfame Walking Spirit in a Native Way ~ White Mocs on the Red Road November 14, 2025    Book Reviews   Walking Spirit in a Native Way BOOK: Walking Spirit in a Native Way by James B. Beard As an avid reader who reads a lot of spiritual non-fiction, I was struck by how personal and deeply sincere this narrative feels. Beard recounts his transformation from a conventional “three-piece suit” life into a path guided by Native teachings, and the honesty with which he describes this shift makes the storytelling accessible. What really sets this book apart is the tenderness in Beard’s recollection of his teacher, Misho, and the other Elders who shape his journey. These interactions are filled with small moments—quiet car rides, probing questions, ceremonial duties—that accumulate into profound realizations about humility, service, and identity. Even if you’re unfamiliar with Ojibwe traditions, the narrative builds a gentle on-ramp, allowing readers to feel their way th...