I am Dine. A modern-day American Indian who is learning to walk a balanced path which involves todays positive philosophy and my ancestors un-dying integrity.My story begins being born on the desolate poverty-stricken Navajo reservation in a devout Christian home, a true minority race of people in their own Native country. Being born unprivileged and de-culturized for me has reaped more reward than repression. Before the reward I endured the tribulation of the subjected Indian who drank, fought, lied and drank again to drown the shame of having that blemished identity. The stereo-type drunken Indian staggering down the street was me.  

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The repression of accepting the idea that all is as it should be almost taking my life on several occasions. Whether it was depression, violence or depravity it festered until I faced the court of law. I was labeled the drunkard Indian, a true product of the Native American community. Being judged by men who knew nothing of the cards I was dealt lead me into looking into my ancestor’s history. The cards I held won me a prison sentence. The prison sentence became my reward because my education is a tribute to my incarceration.  

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Upon investigating my Peoples history, the intuitive instinct of what the Indigenous Americans identity was, resurfaced. The dying ember of my cultural identity ignited with a ravenous hunger. The warriorship and resilience my ancestors displayed inspired me to direct my story towards restoration for my People. Purpose, passion and pride fuel my devotion towards sobriety. I choose to rise above the predicted set of circumstances to enhance the next generations opportunities.  

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My experience is not anyone else’s but it can serve as a testimony for what is possible to the dejected and disregarded. What I promote and advocate is not reparation but self-reliance by harmoniously synchronizing dual or multiple cultures. My efforts will make a positive impact on a few but with a collective effort we can make a benefitting impact for our future generation.  

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I am Bii’ohii the remainder of the ancestors who sacrificed themselves so that I may practice their faith and salvation.

Bii’ohii.