Niobrara in Knox County, Nebraska — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Water Invites Reflection
Ponca Perspective on Water and Life
Photographed By Cosmos Mariner, August 7, 2021
1. Water Invites Reflection Marker
Seen through Native eyes, the land and water are alive. Rocks, trees, meadows, and rivers: all of these natural elements possess their own life spirit. In our culture, Mother Earth is a powerful force in everyday life. We believe that our people, the land, its animals, and the cosmos are all connected and interrelated.
Water holds a special place in many of our ceremonies and life events. Springs are sometimes seen as places where spirits may come and go, crossing from our world to theirs. Ponds like the one before you invite contemplation and reflection. Rivers and streams were once the highways for travelers. Rain is precious. Water is an important symbol in Ponca funerals and dances.
Water is the lifeblood of our people and all living things. Aythayh Wahngheathayh is an expression our people use to convey this interconnection meaning "all my relatives."
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Native Americans.
Location. 42° 42.819′ N, 98° 4.555′ W. Marker is in Niobrara, Nebraska, in Knox County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of 521st Avenue and 890th Road, on the left when traveling north. Marker is located along the Ponca Educational Trail at the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Powwow Grounds.
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Buffalo's Gift (a few steps from this marker); Our Village Homes (within shouting distance of this marker); Symbol of Our Spirit (within shouting distance of this marker); Our Ponca Tribal Community Building (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); An Ocean of Grass (about 400 feet away); Water's Edge (about 400 feet away); I Carry My Home With Me (about 500 feet away); Pow Wow! (about 600 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Niobrara.
Related markers. Click here for a list of markers that are related to this marker. Ponca Educational Trail
Photographed By Cosmos Mariner, August 7, 2021
2. Water Invites Reflection Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on February 27, 2022, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida. This page has been viewed 84 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 27, 2022, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.
