The return home: the passing of a Navajo Elder

It seems as a brief meeting, like stopping by for coffee in the early morning to observe the hustle of the small critters as they scurry around for food and drink before the humans arouse and the temperature starts to rise. We sit silently and smile softly as we watch life’s struggle play out as if we are an audience and the small creatures act out their lives before us.

It is an interesting setting- being the observer of life’s work, quite ironic when one thinks about it, as we observe that there is an appreciation as well as an agreement not to interfere. Do they know that we are watching ?. Do they care? Perhaps there is some type of acknowledgment, there usually is- as awareness of ones environment is critical for survival and success. Anyway, it serves to cause small talk and provoke the child-like wonder and excitement of earlier times. It never gets old.

Soon the moment passes and the coffee begins to cool, we remember that we too must scurry to acquire the necessities for survival and success. However, the brief moment together is somehow sufficient to start the day right and there is always another day. It’s the simple things that bring about a great appreciation- or at the lease a fond memory.

Such was the life with Leon Secatero, a slight man whose strength and humility was forged from the many challenges of life. A man whose unassuming appearance hid the strength of character and deep insight known only to those that chose a spiritual way and walked on the beauty path. Protector of the sacred Navajo way, ‘way shower’ to the spiritual traveler, teacher, scholar and healer, the Elder Leon was unselfish with his wisdom and whatever comfort he could offer, be it a smile with a twinkle in his eye and always with a kind word to bring clarity to understanding. Always love-always. The Elder Secatero was ever aware that the ‘Holy Ones’ were watching and his conduct honored them as he was ever mindful of his sacred duty and his behavior exemplified that ‘special’ communication.
So, having coffee with Leon in the early morning was a moment of profound joy and love- ever a lesson, even if few words were spoken – that we were being watched as well. We must not forget that all are connected in the Great Love. As the coffee began to cool, he would be off to complete the necessary work as directed by the ‘holy ones’. We remain with fond memories. Somewhere, in the Great Love, sits Leon amongst the holy ones, with his cup awaiting. Are we being observed?

Elder Red Eagle Bear

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