There are many distinctive features of Native American religions. In reading, I noticed a common belief in the beginnings of life and time. It seems, that almost every native religion, mentioned in the book, believes that mankind as well as animals were born from the original creator(s) and not created per say. This is very interesting because it puts creator and createe on the same level. There is still a separation in power and control but, believers share a parent to child bond rather than, boss employee bond. One of the most obvious (and probably mentioned in every paper before mine) is their reliance on shaman. Shaman, in my understanding, play the most important role in their respective tribes. They are the healers, problem solvers and most importantly are "connected" directly with the godhead or gods. In a way, they are similar to a preacher, except they speak directly to their gods rather than interpreting, through their eyes, text or commandments. Having brought up the point of text, I will touch base on Native American text, or most commonly the lack thereof. As far as I can tell, from the selected reading, Native American religions do not have a written text or "bible". They simply explain with myths and stories passed down from generation to generation. They seem to have the belief that writing it down shows an end or comprehension to an unending, incomprehensible subject. Writing it down means you have a fear of forgetting, if it is important and true you will know inside yourself, not from the writings of a dead man.
             Native religion has managed to maintain their religious identity for many, many generations. One reason in particular that I would like to elaborate on is, BELIEF. Belief is the strongest emotion a human being can possess. I have labeled it emotion, for the reason that all other emotion and feeling, is derived from
             personal belief. Wars have been fought for beliefs, mass genocid...