The Common Sense Life - Donald R. Repsher
Scribes Valley has released THE COMMON SENSE LIFE: Tales from a Long-ago Forest by Donald R. Repsher.
Deprived of their land by the treachery of a colonial government, this is the story of Lenape Indians who clung tenaciously to their heritage and how the lessons they learned can help us now.
The story of the Lenape points to a long, complex tradition of hospitality and
assimilation in Lenape-hocking, which includes southeastern New York State,
eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
The word Lenape
means “people.” The name is symbolic of the kind of people they were,
continually welcoming and assimilating newcomers and thereby creating through
thousands of years the original “melting-pot” of civilization on the North
American continent. A more specific name is “Delawares,” which is an English
term for the river that runs through their ancient homeland, and a reminder of
the place of origin for the people who are now living elsewhere.
The Lenape were held in high regard by many other Indian nations. They were
referred to as “grandfathers,” a term of respect implying not only their
ancient status but their wisdom and spirituality. Referring to original
documents, "The Common Sense Life" begins with Norse Sagas and
Christopher Columbus and continues with highlights in the history of the
people. In keeping with Lenape Tradition each chapter suggests wisdom that can
be learned from their experiences and spirituality.
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