Chief Seattle's speech was both convicting and beautiful. I found the references to the land where Chief Seattle and his people were located to be really interesting. I realize that I do not view the earth in the same way he does. I probably have a more similar view to that of Governor Stevens. Chief Seattle sees the world as sacred, beautiful, and very close to his heart. In the soil he sees the blood of his brothers and his people's history. The earth is a holy thing to be cherished and respected. It gives his people life and sustains them. To me the earth is a beautiful thing but I do not see myself relating closely to it. I do not have any deep meaningful attachments linked to the earth like Chief Seattle.
Governor Stevens saw the land with a much different perspective than Chief Seattle. It is in some ways strange how two people can look at the same thing and view it completely differently and feel different things about it. Chief Seattle saw that being removed from the land would result in the end of his people. He was aware that the end of his people was on its way and that it was a dark time. He also knew that the land would not be taken care of with the same respect and sustainability that his people provided it. Governor Stevens seemingly saw the land as a gain and a place to build and conquer.
History proves that the more powerful prevails and conquers. Those that are weaker unfortunately do not have much hope. Chief Seattle and his people (from what it sounds like) were greatly outnumbered and ultimately overpowered. In his speech it seemed like he had a choice and could accept or reject Governor Stevens offer. At the same time it is likely that if Chief Seattle did not choose to accept the offer, he would then be forced to.
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"It is in some ways strange how two people can look at the same thing and view it completely differently and feel different things about it." I found both your posts to be very insightful. You made some interesting points. I couldn't agree more that one's perspective is everything in all matters of life. It is amazing how two people can watch the same thing happen or read the same speech and yet take away something completely different from it. The early settlers and Native Americans certainly viewed the Earth and their relationship with it in a completely different manner. Like you stated, the settlers seemed to feel that the Earth existed for them to build and conquer while the Native Americans felt a great sense of duty, respect, and appreciation for it. I agree that Chief Seattle didn't really have any choice but to accept the offer or the settlers would have still taken the land anyway and probably just killed everyone.
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