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September 19, 2004

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Actually this is not a picture of a real person. Under the St. Louis Arch there is a small museum with displays of American History. There are several wax figures such as this Native American Indian in front of a canvas painting of plains and buffalo.

In looking at the display I was intrigued by the fact that it was not complete and that the lower part of the Indian was missing something. It looked as if part if him was taken away. 

This got me thinking and, if you hold your pointer over the image you will be able to view an interesting transition effect. Like the horrible atrocities that had been done to these people, as well as the near extinction of the buffalo, I have brushed them all out from the existence of this image. As if they never were there.

It amazes me as I think about the cruelty and inhumanity that was done to these tribes throughout America, as well as so many other civilizations around the world all through history. But the extreme sad part is that we did this here in our country, just a little over 100 years ago. And much of these prejudices are still taking place today. Native Americans are forced to endure lifestyles that are not even close to their past heritage. Although there are organizations and benefits that are designed to support these people, they are still not enough to make up for the atrocities to their cultures over the years.

"If you can't beat 'em, Join 'em." Yeah, this statement comes to mind as I think of how the Indians could have better survived. Unfortunately it still is not fair. Over the years so many of them tried to fit in with the white man, but still lost so much.

Although there is still so much racism in the world and in this country, I am glad to see that things are so much better than they were 100 years ago. And we still must strive to be better human beings and more supportive and open to each other.

We cannot condemn a fellow man just for his heritage, the color of his skin, or what kind of car he drives.