Sa-go-ye-wat-ha

I thought the way Sa-go-ye-wat-ha responded was interesting. He employed some great means of communication in his speech. He started by acknowledging their meeting was Sovereignly directed. This showed an openness on his part to their meeting. Next he states they listened attentively and will give their honest reaction. He also indicates they are one in their response. This is important as it solidifies their standing before the missionary.

I appreciate Sa-go-ye-wat-ha’s recounting of his people’s history and acknowledging what has been lovingly provided for his people by their creator. Also acknowledged is his people’s compassionate welcoming of the white man who had fled wicked men in pursuit of religious freedom.

A great question Sa-go-ye-wat-ha asks is why the white man differs so much about their religion, if there is only one religion and one book. I guess the answer to that is that somewhere in there, man’s hand must be getting in the way of the one divine truth the white man was saying he represented.

I thought it was interesting that Sa-go-ye-wat-ha said they did not want to destroy the white man’s religion or to take it from them, but that they only wanted to enjoy their own religion. That was a peaceful response, especially considering such loss his people suffered at the hand of some white men.

Sa-go-ye-wat-ha showed wisdom in saying his people were acquainted with their white neighbors the missionary had preached to, and they were going to give it some time to see what results would come of his preaching. If the results were positive, they would then reconsider what the white man said. (Not only is it common sense, but he was also applying a Scriptural principle of testing prophecies and people who say they are prophets of God. I wonder what the missionary thought of that. Sadly, his refusal to shake hands after the speech and blessing for safe travel home, suggests he wasn’t open to allowing that time for observation, and he probably closed the door to future communications.)

I found some of Sa-go-ye-wat-ha’s language and message to be beautiful. “We go to sleep content, and we wake up with gratitude to the Great Spirit. With renewed strength in our limbs, and bounding joy in our hearts, we feel blessed.” I think that is such a basic yet powerful reminder to really be thankful for the simple things in life.