Native Beats

The Legend: "The Totem of Life"

In the heart of the vast plains and deep forests, there lived a tribe known as the People of the Sacred Path. They understood that life was a balance between the earth, the sky, and the waters, and that each element of nature carried a deep spiritual significance. Among all the creatures and forces of nature, the tribe honored the eagle, the buffalo, the fish, and the human spirit, seeing them as guardians and teachers.

The story begins with a young shaman named WíyayA (The Seeker), who was called to the mountain top by the Great Spirit to receive a vision. WíyayA had been troubled by the struggles his people faced in balancing their lives with the forces of nature. The land had become harsh, the buffalo herds had dwindled, and the river had run dry. Seeking guidance, WíyayA meditated under the light of the moon, asking the Great Spirit to show him the way.

In his vision, WíyayA saw a totem rising from the earth, its form made up of four sacred elements. At the top of the totem was an eagle, its wings spread wide, embodying the strength and wisdom of the sky. The eagle was the messenger between the heavens and the earth, its keen eyes able to see far and wide, guiding the people through the unseen forces that surrounded them.

Beneath the eagle was a human figure, representing the connection between the divine and the earth. The figure’s hands were outstretched, receiving the gifts of nature, its face a reflection of the people’s own spirit and their connection to all that lived.

At the center of the totem was a fish, swimming through the currents of the river. The fish represented wisdom, resilience, and the flow of life, reminding the people that they must go with the flow of nature, trusting in its guidance and adapting to the changes that came.

And at the base of the totem was a mighty buffalo, standing strong and unwavering. The buffalo symbolized abundance, strength, and the deep connection between the people and the land. It was the provider, the one who gave sustenance to the people and reminded them to live in harmony with the earth’s cycles.

The Great Spirit spoke through the totem, saying, “The eagle will guide your vision, the fish will show you the wisdom of the waters, the buffalo will provide for you, and the human spirit will connect you all. Remember, you are part of the great circle of life. Each one of you has a role to play in the balance of the earth, the sky, and the water.”

When WíyayA awoke, he carried the wisdom of the totem back to his people. He taught them the importance of each element: the eagle’s vision, the fish’s wisdom, the buffalo’s strength, and the human spirit’s connection to all things. The People of the Sacred Path lived in harmony with the forces of nature, honoring the totem as a symbol of balance and unity.

From that day forward, the tribe remembered that all elements—earth, sky, water, and spirit—were interconnected. They honored the totem and lived by its teachings, ensuring that each of them played their part in the harmony of life.

The Legend: "The Buffalo’s Sacred Walk"

In the time of the great migration, when the earth was still young, the People of the Plains lived in harmony with the land. The buffalo was their sacred companion, providing the people with everything they needed—food, shelter, and tools. To the People, the buffalo was not just an animal; it was a spirit that guided and protected them, a symbol of abundance and resilience.

The buffalo was revered by the tribe, and each part of the buffalo was used with great respect. The people would gather once a year to honor the buffalo with a sacred ceremony, giving thanks for its gifts. During this ceremony, the elders would tell the stories of how the buffalo came to be, and how it had shared its strength and wisdom with the people.

One winter, as the cold winds howled through the plains and the snow covered the earth, a young warrior named WíyayA (The Seeker) set out to find the buffalo spirit. His people were facing a difficult season; the herds had moved far away, and the tribe was struggling to survive. He sought guidance, hoping the buffalo spirit would show him the way.

He walked through the snow, the earth silent beneath him, and came upon a lone buffalo standing tall in the distance. The buffalo’s eyes gleamed with ancient wisdom, and as it saw WíyayA approach, it spoke.

“The land is harsh, but the seasons turn,” the buffalo said. “In times of struggle, you must remember that you are never alone. I walk with you, as do the spirits of the earth. It is through resilience and balance with nature that you will find abundance again.”

The buffalo lowered its head, and the earth seemed to stir beneath its hooves. As it moved, the land began to thaw, and WíyayA saw the first signs of spring—buds appearing on the trees, fresh grass poking through the snow. The buffalo’s spirit had awakened the land, showing him that even in times of hardship, renewal was always possible.

“You are the children of the earth,” the buffalo continued, “and you must live in harmony with all things. We, the buffalo, give not only our flesh but our spirit. Respect us, and we will always be with you.”

WíyayA returned to his people with a renewed sense of hope. He shared the buffalo’s message, teaching the tribe that resilience, respect for nature, and gratitude for the gifts of the earth would lead them through times of hardship. From that day forward, the buffalo’s spirit was honored not just for what it provided, but for its teachings of balance and strength.

The People of the Plains continued to live in harmony with the buffalo, knowing that the sacred spirit of the buffalo walked beside them, guiding them through every season.

The Legend: "The Orca’s Dance"

In the ancient days, when the world was still young, the sea and sky were filled with spirits, each one watching over the natural world. Among them was the orca, a creature so mighty and intelligent that it held the heart of the ocean. The orca was revered by the People of the Sea, who believed that the orca carried the wisdom of the tides, the song of the whales, and the strength of the water in its heart.

The tribe lived by the shores, where the sea provided them with everything they needed. The orca, as the spirit of the ocean, was their protector, ensuring that the balance of the waters and the land was never disturbed. Every full moon, the People of the Sea would gather at the edge of the ocean to honor the orca, sending prayers of gratitude for the life it provided.

One evening, during the time of the great migration, a young warrior named WíyayA (The Seeker) went to the shore, his heart filled with questions. The people were facing a time of scarcity, as the waters had grown quiet and the fish had become harder to find. The warrior sought guidance from the spirit of the orca, hoping to understand how to bring prosperity back to his people.

As he stood on the shore, the sky turned dark, and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks echoed in his ears. Suddenly, the surface of the water broke open, and a great orca emerged, its black-and-white body glistening in the moonlight. The orca’s eyes were deep and wise, filled with the knowledge of the ages. It spoke to WíyayA in a voice like the ocean itself.

“Do not fear the silence of the waters,” said the orca. “In the quiet, the ocean is preparing. Just as the tides rise and fall, so too will the abundance return. Trust in the rhythm of the sea, for all things move in cycles, and nothing is ever truly lost.”

The orca swam in a graceful arc, creating ripples that spread across the water. “The ocean dances with the moon, and so must you. Dance with the rhythm of life, and you will find the balance you seek.”

With these words, the orca vanished beneath the waves, leaving WíyayA with a sense of calm. He understood that his people must align themselves with the cycles of nature, trusting that abundance would return when the time was right. The next day, WíyayA shared his vision with the tribe, teaching them the wisdom of the orca: to dance with the rhythms of the earth and sea, trusting that all things would come in their own time.

From that day on, the People of the Sea honored the orca’s spirit by performing dances that mimicked the graceful movements of the orca in the waves. The dance became a symbol of balance, strength, and patience, reminding the people to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature.

The Legend: "The Buffalo’s Gift"

Long ago, in the vast, open plains, the People of the Earth lived in harmony with the buffalo. The buffalo was not just an animal; it was a sacred spirit that provided the people with everything they needed—food, clothing, shelter, and tools. The buffalo was seen as the giver of life, a symbol of strength, endurance, and the deep connection between the earth and the people.

One winter, a great storm swept across the plains, blanketing the land in snow. The tribe was struggling, their supplies running low, and the animals that once roamed freely had become scarce. The elders gathered around the fire, their faces filled with worry. It was in times like these that the people would seek guidance from the spirits, and so they called upon the buffalo, asking for help.

That night, the tribe’s shaman, WíyayA (The Seeker), received a vision. In his dream, he saw a mighty buffalo standing tall on the horizon, its body adorned with sacred patterns of the earth and sky. The buffalo’s eyes were filled with wisdom, and as it stood in the moonlight, it spoke to WíyayA.

“I am the giver of life, and I have come to remind you of the balance between all things. The earth provides, but it is through your respect and gratitude that you will be sustained. Trust in the cycles of nature, and you will always be provided for.”

The buffalo then lowered its head, and as it did, the snow began to melt. The earth beneath it began to bloom, and the rivers swelled with life. The buffalo stepped forward, its hooves stirring the soil, bringing abundance to the land. It spoke once more, “The gift I give you is not just food, but the wisdom to honor the earth, to live in balance, and to remember that we are all connected.”

WíyayA awoke, filled with a sense of peace and clarity. He understood the buffalo’s message: the tribe must live in harmony with nature, respecting all beings as sacred and interconnected. The buffalo was not just a source of sustenance, but a spirit that taught the people how to live with gratitude, humility, and strength.

The next day, the People of the Earth set out to honor the buffalo’s spirit. They performed a sacred dance, giving thanks for the buffalo’s gifts, and as they danced, the buffalo returned to the plains, leading them to a new herd that had appeared, bringing with it the promise of abundance once again.

From that day forward, the buffalo was no longer seen merely as a provider, but as a teacher and a sacred spirit. The People of the Earth vowed to honor the buffalo, ensuring that it would never be taken for granted and that its spirit would always guide them.

The Legend: "The Hummingbird’s Journey"

Long ago, when the world was still new and the earth was young, there lived a small but powerful spirit in the form of a hummingbird. The People of the Forest believed that the hummingbird carried the heart of the sun, flying between the heavens and the earth, bringing warmth, light, and life wherever it went.

The hummingbird was small, but its wings beat with such speed and energy that it could travel great distances, touching everything in its path. It was said that the bird’s wings created a vibration in the air, bringing balance to the earth and sky. The hummingbird was a messenger of joy and peace, spreading the spirit of love wherever it went.

One day, the People of the Forest were faced with a time of darkness. The sun had not risen for many days, and the trees had begun to wither. The tribe’s leader, an elder named Tȟaŋka WíiyayA (The Great Seeker), called upon the spirits for guidance. In his dream, the hummingbird appeared, glowing with the light of the sun, and spoke to him in a voice as soft as the wind.

“You seek the light, but it is within you,” said the hummingbird. “I carry the heart of the sun, but it is not the sun alone that gives life. The light is within the earth, the trees, and in the hearts of the people. When the hearts of the people are full of love, the sun will return.”

The hummingbird continued, “I will carry your prayers to the sun. Trust in the light within and the balance will be restored.”

The next morning, as the people gathered at the edge of the forest, they saw the hummingbird soar high into the sky. Its wings beat faster and faster, creating a ripple of energy that spread through the trees and the land. The sun slowly began to rise, casting its golden light across the earth. The trees bloomed, and the flowers bloomed again, bringing life to the land.

From that day on, the People of the Forest knew that the hummingbird carried not just the sun’s light, but also the love and energy of the earth. The hummingbird’s journey was a reminder that the light of the sun lives within all living things, and that love, balance, and harmony are the true sources of life. The people would call upon the hummingbird whenever they sought peace and guidance, knowing that the bird’s spirit carried the wisdom of the earth and the sky.

The Legend: "The Whale and the Sun’s Gift"

In ancient times, the People of the Ocean believed that the ocean and the sky were connected through the great whale, a creature so large and powerful that it bridged the worlds of the living and the divine. The whale was sacred to them, seen as a protector of the oceans and a guide to the stars. It was said that the whale could hear the whispers of the sun and carry its light into the depths of the sea.

One day, the tribe’s leader, WíyayA (The Seeker), stood on the shore, watching the waves crash against the rocks. He had heard tales of the great whale’s wisdom and had long desired to seek its guidance. As the sun began to set, casting its golden light across the water, WíyayA felt a deep longing for the answers to his people’s struggles.

As he stood silently, a great rumble echoed through the earth, and the water began to swirl. From the depths of the ocean, a giant whale rose, its body adorned with intricate patterns that reflected the light of the setting sun. The whale’s eyes gleamed with ancient wisdom, and as it broke the surface, it spoke.

“The sun watches over the earth and the sky, but it is I who carry its light to the depths below,” said the whale. “I have seen the balance between the earth, the sky, and the sea. The answers you seek lie in the harmony between all things.”

The whale’s tail slapped the water, sending a wave of energy through the sea. WíyayA, filled with awe, asked the whale, “How can we find balance in our lives, between the struggles we face and the wisdom we seek?”

The whale replied, “You must live in harmony with the cycles of nature, just as I carry the sun’s light through the depths of the ocean. The sun gives life, and the sea nurtures all things. You are part of the great circle, and it is only through unity with the earth, the sky, and the water that you will find peace.”

With that, the whale dove back into the depths, leaving WíyayA with a sense of peace and understanding. He returned to his people, sharing the wisdom of the whale: that balance could only be found through respect for the interconnectedness of all things, and that the sun, the sea, and all living creatures were part of the sacred cycle of life.

From that day forward, the People of the Ocean honored the whale as a sacred guardian and messenger, carrying the light of the sun through the vast ocean depths, guiding the people toward balance and harmony.

The Legend: "The Wolf's Spirit of the Totem"

In the ancient days, when the world was still young, there was a tribe known as the People of the Wild Path. This tribe lived in harmony with nature, following the rhythms of the earth and the sky. Among all the creatures, the wolf was the most sacred, revered for its intelligence, loyalty, and ability to lead the pack through the challenges of life.

The tribe believed that the wolf carried the spirit of the ancestors, guiding them through their journeys. Every full moon, the people would gather around the sacred totem to offer prayers and seek guidance. The totem was carved from the strongest wood, its surface adorned with the shapes and symbols of the animals that the people held dear. At the top of the totem, the spirit of the wolf stood tall, carved in intricate patterns that told the stories of the earth, the sky, and the spirits that watched over them.

One night, as the tribe gathered for their ceremony, a young shaman named WíyayA (The Seeker) approached the totem with a heavy heart. He sought wisdom, for the tribe had been facing many trials, and he did not know the right path forward. As he stood before the totem, the wolf's spirit seemed to come alive. The air around him grew thick with energy, and the wolf’s eyes gleamed as if it were watching him with deep understanding.

In that moment, WíyayA felt the wolf’s spirit enter him. He could feel the strength of the pack, the wisdom of the earth, and the courage of the hunt flowing through him. The wolf spoke in a voice like the wind howling through the forest, “You seek answers in the stars, but the true wisdom is in your heart. Lead with courage, and your people will follow. Trust in the spirit of the wolf within you.”

WíyayA understood then that the trials they faced were not to be feared, but embraced as part of the journey. The path ahead was uncertain, but the strength of the wolf, the protector and guide, would lead them through. He shared this wisdom with the people, teaching them that the spirit of the wolf lived within each of them, ready to guide them in times of uncertainty.

From that day forward, the People of the Wild Path honored the wolf's spirit through their ceremonies, carvings, and prayers. The wolf became a symbol of leadership, strength, and the enduring connection between the earth and the spirit world. The totem, with the wolf at its heart, was a constant reminder that no matter the challenges they faced, they would always be guided by the wisdom of the ancestors, the courage of the wolf, and the strength of the pack.

The Legend: "The Whale and the Moon’s Dance"

Long ago, in a time before the stars could speak to the people, the whale was seen as a sacred creature who traveled between the realms of the earth, sky, and water. It was said that the whale’s song could echo through the very fabric of the universe, connecting all things with the deep wisdom of the oceans. The People of the Ocean believed that the whale carried the stories of the moon, the stars, and the oceans in its heart.

One night, as the moon rose high in the sky, a young shaman named WíyayA (The Seeker) stood on the shores of the great ocean, gazing at the glowing crescent in the sky. He had been seeking wisdom, for the people of his tribe had been facing a time of great uncertainty. They were in need of guidance from the spirits, a sign from the heavens above, and the earth below.

As the moonlight shimmered on the waves, WíyayA heard the sound of the ocean calling him. He waded into the water, his heart full of questions, and there, he saw the great whale breach the surface of the water. The whale’s body was illuminated by the light of the moon, its markings glowing like stars in the night sky. The whale spoke to WíyayA, its voice deep and resonant, carrying the wisdom of the earth and the cosmos.

“Do not fear the uncertainty,” said the whale, “For the moon and the stars are always with you, guiding you through the cycles of life. Just as the moon pulls the tides, we are all connected by the rhythms of the universe. Trust the flow of the water and the guidance of the stars, for they are the path forward.”

As WíyayA listened, he saw the whale swim gracefully, creating ripples in the water that reflected the light of the moon. In the whale’s body, he saw the intricate designs of the universe, the same patterns that were found in the stars, the waves, and the earth. The whale’s dance was a reminder of the harmony that exists between all things, and the interconnectedness of the cycles of life.

The whale continued, “You must trust in the ebb and flow, for everything has its time. The moon and the stars guide the tides, and the ocean carries the wisdom of the ages. With patience and trust, the path will reveal itself to you.”

With this, the whale dove deep into the waters, disappearing into the night, leaving WíyayA with a profound sense of peace. The moon above shone brightly, and the waves of the ocean calmed. WíyayA returned to his people, carrying the message of the whale and the moon. He taught them to trust in the cycles of life, to follow the rhythm of the world around them, and to never forget that the earth, the water, and the stars were always guiding them.

From that day on, the people lived in harmony with the ocean, respecting its power and wisdom. They knew that the whale, the moon, and the stars were always with them, leading them through each new chapter of their journey.

The Legend: "The Eagle of the Sacred Circle"

In ancient times, the People of the Sky and Earth lived in harmony under the protection of the great eagle. The eagle, with its powerful wings, soared high above the mountains, watching over the land and sky. It was said that the eagle’s eyes could see the truth of all things and that its spirit held the wisdom of the ancestors. The People believed that the eagle was not just a physical creature, but a divine being that bridged the gap between the spiritual and earthly realms.

One day, a young warrior named WíiyayA (The Seeker) ventured deep into the mountains to seek guidance from the eagle spirit. For many nights, he meditated under the stars, seeking the wisdom of the skies, but no answers came. On the final night, as the moon rose high, WíiyayA saw a bright flash of light. He looked up to see a great eagle descending toward him, its wings stretched wide like the very sky itself.

The eagle spoke to WíiyayA, saying, "You seek knowledge, but true knowledge is not only found in the mind. It is found in the heart and in the balance between the heavens and the earth. I carry the wisdom of the sun and the moon, the strength of the wind and the earth, but it is you who must walk the path of harmony."

As the eagle spoke, its wings glowed with the colors of the sunset, and within its chest, WíiyayA saw a sacred geometric symbol—the Flower of Life—radiating light. The symbol represented the interconnectedness of all things, the cycles of life, death, and rebirth. The eagle’s wings enveloped WíiyayA in a vision of the universe, showing him how every being, from the smallest plant to the greatest mountain, was part of a greater, divine pattern.

The eagle continued, "You must learn to live in balance with the world around you. As I soar, I see the vastness of the world and the unity of all beings. Let the sun guide you by day, and the moon by night, but always remember the sacredness of every step you take."

When WíiyayA awoke, he understood that his journey was not just one of physical strength, but of spiritual wisdom. He returned to his people, sharing the eagle’s teachings: to live in harmony with nature, to understand the interconnectedness of all things, and to walk the path of balance and truth.

From that day forward, the eagle became a symbol of spiritual guidance for the People. They revered it not only as a powerful protector but as a messenger from the heavens, carrying the wisdom of the sun, the moon, and the stars. The geometric symbol of the Flower of Life became a sacred emblem, representing the balance of life and the eternal circle of existence.

The Legend: "The Eagle’s Call"

Long ago, in the time when the earth and sky were still young, there existed a tribe that lived under the watchful eyes of the eagle. The eagle, revered by all, was seen as the bridge between the heavens and the earth, carrying the voices of the ancestors and the wisdom of the stars. It was said that the eagle’s wings could span the sky, reaching across worlds, and its eyes could see into the hearts of men.

In this tribe, a young warrior named WíiyayA (The Seeker) was known for his great courage but also for his deep questions about life. Despite his bravery in battle, he longed to understand his true purpose, the meaning behind his existence, and how he could serve his people with wisdom.

One day, as the sun dipped below the horizon, WíiyayA went to the highest peak to seek answers. The wind howled through the trees, and the ground beneath him felt as if it was calling him home. Suddenly, he heard a great cry from above. Looking up, he saw an eagle soaring high in the sky, its wings stretched wide, catching the last rays of the sun. Its body was decorated with ancient symbols, and its eyes seemed to glow with an otherworldly light.

The eagle circled above him, and in the space between breaths, WíiyayA heard the voice of the eagle in his heart. "You seek wisdom," the eagle spoke, "but wisdom is not found in the winds or the stars, it is found in the heart of the earth and in the depths of your own spirit."

The eagle's wings beat strong and steady as it descended slowly, landing before WíiyayA. "Look within," the eagle continued, "for the answers you seek are within you. I carry the messages of the ancestors, and I fly between the worlds, but it is you who must walk the path of wisdom with open eyes and a willing heart."

The young warrior listened closely, understanding that true strength came not from external battles, but from the quiet battles within, the struggles for wisdom, understanding, and balance.

As the eagle flew back into the sky, WíiyayA felt a deep sense of peace. He had not only received the wisdom of the eagle but had also discovered that his true path lay in guiding his people with knowledge, not just through strength, but through insight and compassion.

From that day forward, WíiyayA became a great leader and spiritual guide, sharing the message of the eagle with his tribe: that true vision comes not just from the eyes, but from the heart, and that wisdom is a journey, not a destination.

The Legend: "The Cosmic Salmon"

Long ago, in the deep, untouched rivers of the earth, there lived a sacred salmon known to the People of the River as "The Cosmic Salmon." This fish was not only a provider of sustenance but also a powerful spiritual being that connected the earth with the heavens. The People believed that the salmon’s journey was a metaphor for life itself—full of struggle, transformation, and rebirth.

One night, a young elder named WíiyayA (The Seeker) sat by the riverbank under a sky filled with countless stars. He watched as the salmon leaped from the river, their silvery scales shimmering like stars, disappearing into the night sky. As he gazed into the cosmos, the salmon seemed to align with the stars, their energy blending with the universe.

In his dream, WíiyayA saw the salmon swimming through the waters, its body filled with the universe itself. The swirling patterns that surrounded the fish were not just water, but the pulse of the cosmos, the balance between all elements—water, earth, and sky. Inside the salmon’s body, he saw galaxies swirling, a reminder that all life was interconnected through an endless cycle of life and rebirth.

The salmon’s spirit spoke to WíiyayA, saying, “We are born from the earth, travel through the waters, and return to the sky. Our journey is a reflection of the cycle of life. Just as we are reborn from the depths of the river, so too can you find renewal in the challenges you face.”

When WíiyayA awoke, he shared his vision with his people. They understood that the salmon, with its cosmic energy, was a reminder of the cycle of life and the interconnectedness of all beings. The people celebrated the spirit of the Cosmic Salmon through a sacred dance by the river. As they moved to the rhythm of the flowing water, they called upon the spirit of the salmon to guide them through their struggles, helping them find peace, wisdom, and rebirth in their own lives.

From that day on, the salmon was honored not only as a provider of food but as a spiritual guide. The People of the River believed that the salmon carried the energy of the stars and the power of the universe within its journey, reminding them of their own strength and connection to the greater cosmos.

The Legend: "The Spirit of the Wolf and the Circle of Guardians"

Long ago, in the shadow of the great mountains and vast forests, there was a tribe known as "The Guardians of the Spirit Path." This tribe lived in harmony with nature and revered the animal spirits that guided them through life’s challenges. Among the most sacred of these spirits was the wolf.

The wolf was known as the protector of the tribe, guiding them through the dark times with courage and loyalty. The people believed that the wolf’s spirit could communicate with other creatures, calling upon them for help in times of need. One such time came when the tribe was threatened by an unseen enemy, and the balance of their world seemed to falter.

One night, under the light of the full moon, a young shaman named WíiyayA (The Seeker) went on a spiritual journey. In his vision, he saw a great wolf standing proudly, its body filled with intricate patterns of the earth and sky. Inside the wolf’s chest were images of the eagle, the bear, and the smaller wolves—spirits that had been summoned by the wolf to stand together as guardians.

The wolf’s spirit spoke to WíiyayA, saying, “To protect the people, we must call upon the strength of the eagle, the wisdom of the bear, and the loyalty of the wolf. Together, we are the Circle of Guardians. Each of us has a role to play in maintaining the balance between all things.”

In the vision, WíiyayA saw the wolf howl into the night sky, and from its voice emerged the eagle, flying high above, watching over the tribe. Below, the bear roamed the earth, bringing wisdom and strength. The smaller wolves followed the path of the larger wolf, ensuring that no one was left behind.

Upon waking, WíiyayA understood the significance of his vision. He gathered the tribe and shared the teachings of the wolf. The people of the tribe performed a ceremony, calling upon the spirits of the eagle, bear, and wolf to protect them. They painted their bodies with symbols of these sacred animals and danced around a fire, honoring the balance between the earth, sky, and water.

From that day forward, the wolf became not only the protector of the tribe but also a symbol of unity and strength. The Circle of Guardians was formed, with the eagle, bear, and wolf working together to ensure the tribe’s safety and prosperity. The people learned that, like the wolf, they too must protect and care for each other, always moving forward together in harmony.