04/29/06

We are a Tribe, a club, a loose organization of boys and their dads who are out to have fun and spend some loving time together.  We use the Y-Guides program and theme to build a special bond and lean history and the love of nature that comes naturally from the native culture. 

We have named our tribe after the Chumash who fished from wooden plank canoes called a tomol.  They fished and gathered for food and all their needs.  They were content to live within their means and found a simple life with balance in the natural environment to be their spiritual goal.

But... Now you want to know about the Y-Guides:

The Slogan of the Indian Guides is

Pals forever!
 - To be said very loudly with lots of enthusiasm 

The Indian Guides Aims:

 To be clean in body and pure in heart.

 To be "Pals Forever" with my father/son.

 To love the sacred circle of my family.

 To be attentive while others speak.

 To love my neighbor as myself.

 To seek and preserve the beauty of
the Great Spirit's work in forest, field, and stream.

This is the first year of three short years of learning and growing for the Little and Big Braves of our tribe. Some are in to learn camping. Some are in it for the fun. Some are working hard on making quality time for their fast growing sons.

We run a meeting like any club... ie. the Elks or Optimists etc.

Say a standard opening: Slogan and Aims

Chief makes brief announcements

Read the Minutes - ie. Tallykeeper's report

Collect dues - ie. Wampum Bearer collects Wampum and give out a bead

Members speak when called on - ie. Passing the Talking Stick
 - this is like a Jr. Toastmasters moment for the boys (Little Braves)
 - and the Dads say something to build self esteem in their little brave

We do something fun... Story or Game or Craft

We gather for a quick closing ceremony and off we go to home and beds

All of the above can happen in approximately one hour.  But sometimes the Crafts run over.   :-)