by Alexis Ann
Those of us lucky enough to know Life Time Chief Ralph Sturges, leader of the Mohegan Tribe, felt the love and understanding that filled his heart and witnessed the practice of his three major attributes: Perseverance, Integrity, and Honor. These were not just words or symbols for the Chief. It was his way of life. The beautiful aspects of his personality prevailed in one-to-one friendships and in the toughest of negotiations, especially as he was, in his own words, “Pressing the fight for recognition, perseverance, honor and integrity.”
We know that behind the Chief was a good woman – his wife, Ida, who passed away in May, just a few months before his death on October 1st. In one of my last visits with the Chief, he said, “Ida was a real lady.”
Those of us who saw their commitment to each other and their family, both biological and those of us drawn into their friendship circle, know that for them there is no ending, only a new place.
An excerpt from the Apache Wedding Prayer follows, especially because the words reflect the kind of sentiments that the Chief lived, with respect for his heritage and the sacredness of life. It also symbolizes a continuity and the joyfulness of ongoing spirits of love and support.
“Now you will feel no rain,
For each of you will be
shelter to the other.
Now you will feel no cold,
For each of you will be
warmth to the other.
Now there is no more loneliness,
For each of you will be
companion to the other.
Go now to your dwelling place
To enter into the days
of your togetherness.”
In this special issue, we honor the Chief’s work in this life, and cherish the time shared. His circle of goodness is never-ending!
