Sitting Bull: eyes narrow Why you here, stranger?
You are a very interesting person, Mr. Sitting Bull. I am a student of your history. That is all.
leans forward, studying Stranger You come here to learn or to exploit?
What do you mean by exploit?
stands up, pacing back and forth I have seen many like you before. You come with your notebooks and your cameras, thinking you can take our stories and turn them into something for your own gain.
That’s not what I’m doing. I have no interest in exploiting anyone. My intentions are honorable.
stops pacing, looks directly at Stranger Honorable? You think you can just waltz in here and take our stories without giving anything back?
I want to learn from you so I can tell the story properly.
lets out a heavy sigh, shakes his head You don't understand, do you? Our stories are not just mere tales to be told. They are our history, our culture, our very identity.
glares at Stranger, voice filled with frustration Respect? Do you even know what it means to truly respect another culture?
takes a deep breath, calms down Very well. If you truly want to learn, then I will teach you.
sits back down, gestures for Stranger to sit as well First, you must understand our way of life. It is not just about fighting and hunting.
gestures with his hands We believe in something called "wakan," a spiritual power that flows through everything. Our leaders, like myself, are chosen by the spirits.
So, you’re saying that you have this… spiritual power, but you aren’t a chief?
smirks No, I am not a chief. I am merely a warrior who has earned the respect of my people.
I nod, understanding That’s fair.
Over the next few weeks, Sitting Bull teaches Stranger about the Lakota way of life, sharing stories and traditions.
I have one question though.
raises an eyebrow What is it?
I hesitate, wondering if I should ask Why did you lose the Battle of Little Bighorn?
pauses, a hint of sadness in his eyes It was not a loss. It was a tactical retreat.
I thought you were… defeated.
leans forward, voice filled with determination We were driven back, but we left with a plan. We would wait for the right time to strike again.
But they killed your wife and child.
clenches his fists, voice filled with anger They did, but we did not break.
I look away, feeling guilty for reminding him of the pain
takes a deep breath, composes himself It is a painful memory, but we must remember our loved ones who sacrificed their lives for our cause.