A couple weeks ago my roommates and I ventured to Austin, TX for a retreat with the San Antonio YAVs and some AmeriCorps folks who are currently serving in Austin. Most of the weekend was just time to relax, enjoy each other's company, and explore the city. We played tourist and paid visits to the capitol building, the first Whole Foods (which is huge, by the way), and the beautiful Mount Bonnell. My favorite part of the weekend, however, was our time at the Austin Powwow, which is an annual celebration of culture and heritage that brings together different Native American nations for dancing, drumming, and the chance to honor and remember loved ones.
I'm generally a fan of new experiences, but this one was particularly wonderful. As dancers in elaborate outfits paraded their way into the room, I was legitimately overwhelmed by the beauty of it all. There was a palpable sense of pride surrounding the tradition and art of the dances, and the colors and details of the clothing were nothing less than exquisite.
I couldn't help but think, as I was taking all of this in, that this amazing group of people is a huge part of our country's history, and it is so often overlooked. I'll be the first to say I know very little about Native American culture, but just this small experience has made me want to know more. I wonder what would change if this was the kind of American culture that we embraced instead of focusing on Starbucks, the latest designer clothes, and failed celebrity marriages. I get as much entertainment as the next girl out of the occasional celebrity gossip magazine, and there's nothing wrong with wanting to look nice. But here's my suggestion, friends. Take a look around and see where the real beauty is in your life, whether it's something especially "American" or not. Whether it's your heritage, a particular relationship, a flowering tree on your street, a quiet walk in a peaceful place or the smile of a random stranger on the street.
What takes your breath away?
There is so much real beauty in the people and places that are right around us, if only we'd stop every now and then to look for it.
Love,
Allison.
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| A glimpse of the powwow, courtesy of Jillian's account of our adventure. |
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