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: Indigenous Peoples and Communities.
Location. 42° 42.819′ N, 98° 4.555′ W. Marker is in Niobrara, Nebraska, in Knox County. It can be reached from the intersection
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Eastern Nebraska. It is also in the American Midwest, in the Corn Belt, and on the prairies. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Louisiana Purchase.
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.
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 219 times since then and 13 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 27, 2022, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.
