I was meeting with a gentleman, and we started talking about life on the reservation. He works for a faith-based financial organization, so we talked about worship and funerals.

I mentioned that suburban church world, I would take the extra funds I received for funerals and weddings into a vacation fund. But life on the reservation does not offer that income.

I mentioned that I often receive gifts for my services. Most commonly, Star Quilts. But I have received other items. Gift baskets, other blankets, cookies, a ham, and a small amount of native made jewelry. I have had others give me dream catchers and artwork.

While we were talking, a former director of the center called me to deliver some donations for the center. She came over and delivered some blankets. Then she surprised the heck out of me.

She pointed to a box in her car. She told me that the box and, more importantly, what was in the box.

It is a beautiful, hand painted buffalo skull.

While she was the director, she bought the skull to help a community member out. She then had another artist paint it for her.

This place amazes me sometimes. I was awed at this beautiful gift.

It made my day. Heck, it made my month. It reminded me that I am loved.

God loves you. So do I.