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But also imagine what positive effects this form of communication could have on family relations as well! Take my family for example: I have three children, ages 2, 5, & 14. The teenager is convinced that NO ONE listens to him, 
toddler MAKES SURE that everyone listens to her, and 5-year-old desperately tries to have his views heard above other two! It's quite circus some days! Now that we have Talking Stick, EVERYONE will be heard. And hopefully all family members will begin to feel like their opinions are being heard and really do count. I think it will be a great family communication tool.
Please visit http://www.acaciart.com/stories/archive6.html if you'd like to read more about history of Talking Stick and some of symbolism behind items used in making one. There is also a picture of what one might look like.
By now, you may be inspired to make your own Talking Stick for your family. Go for it! Be creative! My husband used ideas from article above and added different types of beads to symbolize each family member and some other personal symbolism that only our family would appreciate. He also typed out a "story" explaining history of stick and included meanings of all symbolism he used to create it. One of my favorite parts is, "The fork in stick represents disagreement which is natural between different members of any tribe. The fork is short and ends sharply to remind us that a solution to all conflict is possible and need not end in a lonely journey for any member of tribe." The main idea is that it is made with love and out of respect for family unit.
We have our stick hung in a prominent area of our house for all guests to see and "story" is framed beside it. Quite a conversation piece!
As for my husband...I'd have to say that he really outdid himself on this project. I never would have believed that receiving a STICK could mean so much. I'd like to share with you final sentences from his story, "The Talking Stick is given from loving heart of tribe leader. This token of love is so that every tribal member remains together until sun sets for last time on our day. The love of an eagles flight, Chief Phillip!"
Gina M. Woods is an artist, graphic designer, wife, and mother of three children. Please visit her web site at www.spiritwithindesigns.com for a variety of Christian gifts created from her artwork. She is also involved in affiliate marketing. Join her marketing team FREE at http://mpamads.com?u=1506492&l=4510. Get FREE step-by-step lessons & earn a steady income online. Questions and/or are welcome at ginawoods@alltel.net.
