Megan laughed, having had similar thoughts about teachers and elderly people she knew from home. Is that what Colby meant by saying his grandfather would want him to reclaim his heritage? Does that happen at a Pow-Wow? This is one evening I will pay particular attention to Gray Cloud's words, and even those words he never speaks. "Megan," Brett said sternly. "What are you doing?"
As if scolded, Megan stared at her feet and twisted her hands together. She knew it was wrong to ask personal questions of Gray Cloud, but how else would she ever know how to help her friend?
"It's all right, Brett," Gray Cloud answered. "Do not be angry with her. She's trying to help me uncover answers." The old man's smile warmed Megan. They held a secret knowledge, like a secret handshake or password to a club. With a wink, Gray Cloud said, "I am in the mood to share stories." His lyrical voice reached the sky. "May I return to camp with you and tell the children about Pow-Wow's?"
The men took the lead while Megan lagged behind, in hopes Colby followed. His attitude about family was disturbing, but she believed it was an act. A part he concocted to keep from experiencing heartbreak. Life scares him, but that's why we have family. They help us through the difficult times and help celebrate the good times. What is he afraid of losing if he returns? "Himself," her heart whispered.
Megan pushed ahead to put Misty in her stall. She heard the kids shout, "Gray Cloud. Did you come to tell us stories? Please tell us more about Blackfoot life." The old man's laughter echoed in the air and settled in Megan's soul. The man she knew and admired had returned. Somehow I'll give him his dream, she said to herself with a smile on her face and in her heart. "Tonight I will share stories about dancing," Gray Cloud said, sitting in his honorary seat by the campfire. His voice drew Megan to the group. After she settled on a log, he began his story. "A Pow-Wow is a celebration of our heritage and to mark a passing of a season and welcome a new one. Though men, women, and children dance separately, all their dances work together to form unity amongst those in attendance. Some dance to renew their faith in life. Some dance to reconnect with family. Dancing in a Pow-Wow is not done without thought. It is not a school dance where you hang out with your friends and dance to the songs you like. A Pow-Wow is spiritual and the dancer connects with the earth. It changes you and revitalizes you."