Music for the Spirit

Calvin Standing Bear

James Torres

                Yesterday on my mystic meanderings I stopped at again one of my
favorite places. A place of beauty, creativity, history, and best of all friendships. This place that I hold dear to my heart, has long been a part of my history here in Colorado.  The place I speak of is the trading post of Charles Eagle Plume. On this particular day Calvin Standing Bear and James Torres were performing music of the spirit. His soothing tranquil tones of the cedar flute with keyboard, created songs of musical prayers and meditation in time honored Native tradition.  This flute music provided a backdrop for another native tradition, fry bread, of which I truly enjoyed. Inside the trading post I was lost in native American art work that was to me fascinating.  Watching the tedious art of porcupine quilling, to the beautiful paintings of Arthur Short Bull drove home, for me, the importance of appreciating a culture that is quickly moving away from a society that knows little of times past. At a time of such turmoil, we need to share this music, art and history as a way of preserving a simple way of life. If you would be interested in Calvin's music he can be found at www.calvinstandingbear.org Arthur Short Bull's paintings can be seen at www.dawnhawk.org What a wonderful joyous time I had on my mystic meanderings, and I can only thank God for showing me the connection to the beautiful, meaningful, parts of life. He is truly a gracious and loving creator.