Twas the night before a Native Christmas and all through the tipi

The dogs were curled up with the kids, the woman and me.

Snow was gently falling and soon it would cover all the ground

We all waited patiently in hopes the sacred white buffalo would soon come around

The woman and I had tucked the dogs and kids in bed

With smiles as they lay dreaming of Maple syrup and fry bread

The woman settled with her bead loom  and I had just lit my pipe

When through the top of the tipi  came a shining bright light

With the speed of a young deer I jump to my feet

My long braids danced as I ran to the door in my Buffalo briefs.

I threw back the door to the tipi and stared into the night.

My heart swelled with Native pride as I gazed at the glorious sight.

For there in the tree lines that were freshly covered with snow

Was the promise from the Great Spirit the sacred White Buffalo

He stood proud and strong as the steam arose from his nose

And in his eyes was the future the present and days of long ago

His coat was long and thick with the purest shade of white

As his massive hooves touched the ground it sent out echoes through the night

He approached my tipi and spoke as one with great wisdom

He said my child be at ease the Great Spirit sent me to look over his children

This will be the best Native Christmas in a very long while

for I the white buffalo will take the sickness from the Native Child

This year your tables will be filled with meat, fruit and grain.

No longer will your water be polluted that you drink from the cold spring

Your brothers and sister from all tribes will see this promise of love

They will know that the Native American prophecies are from the Great Spirit above.

One thing the Great Spirit asks with the elders of old live in harmony with all walks of man

For the day will come when Justice will be done and the Native American will return to their land.

Then he turned with a twist and leaped out of sight

I heard his say as he mazed through the woods Merry Native Christmas and to all a good night.  

Written 12/23/2011 Jeff Knowlton