Red Wolf Studio

The Talking Stick is used in many Native American Traditions when people may gather to talk. It allows everyone to present their Sacred Point of View. The Talking Stick is passed from person to person as they speak. Only the person holding the talking stick is allowed to talk. Those not speaking must listen closely, so when their turn comes, they do not repeat unneeded information or ask impertinent questions. Indian children are taught to listen from age three forward; they are also taught to respect another's viewpoint. This is not to say that they may not disagree, but rather they are bound by their personal honor to allow everyone their Sacred Point of View.

Talking Sticks typically have an Answering Feather, normally from the plume of an Eagle. A symbol of the intermediate region between things of the spirit world and the earth; Eagles are seen as being messengers, guides and sacred guardians. The Answering Feather is also held by the person speaking unless the speaker addresses a question. At that time, the Answering Feather is passed to the person asked to answer the query.