Talking Sticks
The Tradition
The talking stick has been used for centuries by many
American Indian tribes as a means of just and impartial hearing. The talking
stick was commonly used in council circles to designate who had the right to
speak. When matters of great concern came before the council, the leading elder
would hold the talking stick and begin the discussion. When he finished what he
had to say he would hold out the talking stick, and whoever wished to speak
after him would take it. In this manner the stick was passed from one individual
to another until all who wished to speak had done so. The stick was then passed
back to the leading elder for safe keeping.
Some tribes used a talking feather instead of a talking stick. Other tribes
might have a peace pipe, a wampum belt, a sacred shell, or some other object by
which they designate the right to speak. Whatever the object, it carries respect
for free speech and assures the speaker he has the freedom and power to say what
is in his heart without fear of reprisal or humiliation.
Whoever holds the talking stick has within his hands the sacred power of words.
Only he can speak while he holds the stick; the other council members must
remain silent. The speaker should not forget that he or she carries within
themselves a sacred spark of the Great Spirit, and therefore the bearer is also
sacred. If the bearer feels he or she cannot honor the talking stick with his
words, he should refrain from speaking so he or she will not be dishonored.
Our Adaptation
We use this ancient tool to
empower couples to say their vows to each other in such a way that a connection
with the sacred or spiritual is happening right at that special moment, and that your beloved will
respectfully listen and understand that these are much more than just empty
words! These words said at your wedding ceremony will only happen one time in this
special way for all of your days together, and constitute your unique and loving
commitment to another human
being. They come from the giver's heart and
soul. Power words such as these deserve great care and respect!
If you would like to purchase the talking stick that marries you, we will use a Native American 14" leather wrapped talking stick adorned with power feathers and soft fur... because your words should be soft yet powerful! The cost for the use and purchase of this artifact is $30, and is a great investment in marital communications... the very talking stick you held as you said your vows to each other! If you would like to incorporate this ceremony but don't want to buy the talking stick, we can use either the Native American one, or our Holistic Driftwood Talking Stick. It was hand made in a metaphysical workshop in Oregon from a carefully selected piece of driftwood with a matched crystal, decorations, feathers, ect, and has been created with love and positive energy! Great care was taken in it's creation, starting with the selection of components, and in the infusion of love and caring by all who share in it's use. To have the Talking Stick in your ceremony without purchase will be $15.
Please specify your choice of Talking Sticks to Rev Beachpeople!
For a couple to use the Talking Stick in their ceremony, you will be handed this artifact at the the time you say any spoken words to each other, (after the officiant introduces and describes its purpose with a brief blessing), and then you'll hand it to your beloved when it's their turn to speak. When you are finished, hand it back to the officiant. Simple. And if you are purchasing your own stick, I guarantee it will be unused until your hands touch it... and the power of your love, honor, and integrity will fill this marvelous object with your unique energy that will be waiting there in "storage" for when it's needed again!
We encourage this connection with our spiritual humanity! Maybe we should deliver a truck load to Washington D.C.!
910-575-8171