Killer Whale Talking Devotion Indigenous Native deals Talking Stick

Driftwood collected along the shore of Lake Ontario.


Hand Painted Native American Ceremonial Driftwood Stick used for prayer, healing, dancing, talking, meditation.

This natural piece of driftwood shaped like an arrowhead represents all four spiritual elements of earth, sky, water and fire, north, south, east and west.


Measurements 27 cm in length

This ceremonial item has been smudged during its creation and when completed.

To help the people work together, Deganawidah brought deals powerful symbols of peace. One tradition was to pass something important around the circle to show who was speaking from his or her heart. Some Native Americans began to use a talking stick. They passed the talking stick around the circle when they had a council.

A council was, and still is, a time, like a special meeting, to share thoughts and feelings about an important subject. The council works as an important way to solve problems because it is a special time for listening to everyone. When people have councils to listen and talk from their hearts, then there is no need to fight and to have wars. The listening with respect and caring for everyone is the important part of using the talking stick to help solve problems. Deganawidah knew the power of listening with respect and he brought us to this way to solve problems without fighting.


Why Use the Talking Stick?

Everyone has an opportunity to speak.
The process encourages everyone to listen more carefully.
When everyone has a turn, it reduces competition for time and attention.
It builds trust and safety in community.
Respect for the ideas and contributions of others is the process.