hoka hey

The Sioux Indians had a war cry of, “Hoka hey!” Translated, it means, “It’s a good day to die.” A warrior did not desire to die by voicing this statement; it was the opposite of its intent. When a warrior went into battle and cried, “Hoka hey,” he was rejoicing, “My life is in order, I am one with my God, I am void of offense towards the Great Spirit – I have its blessing, should my life be taken this day – all is in order – It is a good day to die.” He has communed with the spirits, received purification, and obtained permission to go into battle. He has found spiritual strength within himself, allowing him to be fearless against the enemy. “Hoka Hey”.

I have been thinking about this statement upon waking and before bed for months. This statement has helped me to keep pushing through many moments of feeling like giving up and like a victim and remember that my struggles are here to teach me and make me stronger. Life has sometimes become strange, mysterious, confusing, and chaotic. I have to remind myself that the way people act around me has more to do with them than me. If I allow, I am learning to trust all life experiences to bring me more healing and joy. Sometimes, the most significant act of a warrior is to walk away from the war and not engage in it.