[firebrand]

Saw a rain dance in New Mexico a few decades ago. It did not start "on time." It started when one old Indian came out of his pueblo dwelling and went to visit another one. Then they gathered others, one by one. Then slowly, slowly, the Indians came down from the pueblo and assembled for the dance.

The older folks were in traditional clothes, some of the youngsters in modern dress but just as serious and undramatic about the dance as their elders.

It was nothing like the Hollywood version. It was slow, graceful, dignified, with no exaggerated movements. Done in a circle, with soft chanting. It was one of the most beautiful, moving things I have ever seen.

[Calpernia]

Rainmaker! Click!

[Mama_Bear]

What a wonderful story about the New Mexico rain dance. There is something about the southwest and Native American culture that I am drawn to, it's hard to explain. I have been through New Mexico, but didn't get to see much, except desert and a long straight highway from horizon to horizon.

I was telling a friend of mine that I was working on a profile of New Mexico. She was born and raised in Albuquerque and I could see the way her face lit up how much she loved and missed her birthplace.

Thank you for coming and sharing your memory of the Indian rain dance.

[LadyX]

"Saw a rain dance in New Mexico a few decades ago.

It was nothing like the Hollywood version. It was slow, graceful, dignified, with no exaggerated movements. Done in a circle, with soft chanting. It was one of the most beautiful, moving things I have ever seen."

It has been my privilege to attend gathering of Indians in Florida and North Carolina, and they are awesome! It is something every person should experience with reverence for the centuries of development of expressions of beauty and grace found in one's surroundings.

Calpernia, I'm enjoying all your illustrations and articles and sounds, as usual, and thank you for your many contributions to the Finest threads.

By the way, we need rain here - perhaps it is time for - - ..:))
an after dark rain dance on the back lawn...wanna help there in NJ?