The Essence of the Corn

Shortly after Hopi emergence into the forth world, there was a gathering of all Native American peoples. Spread before them was a variety of corn, all colors and sizes. The spirits, or kachinas, gave each tribe a task was to choose a variety of corn that would sustain their tribes on all their journeys through life. At once, all of the tribes quickly grabbed the largest, brightest, most succulent varieties. Meanwhile, the Hopi representative just stood back waiting and watching. He wanted to see what motivated each tribe to pick the ear that they did. Eventually the chaos and fighting died down and only one ear of corn was left. It was small and dark blue in color. This corn was much like the kind that the Hopi representative knew came from the First World in the beginning of time. He knew of its deep, spreading roots which would enable the corn to thrive in the harsh desert climates. The spirits looked upon him and were approving of the Hopi's choice. They said that those tribes that were greedy and picked the largest for themselves would fade away with time, but the Hopi would live long, full lives. They may have to work hard, but their tribe and culture would live long and they will be a happy people.

That is the beginning of the interpretive presentation I give at our campground amphitheater every Wednesday night. My program focuses on the Hopi and the role that corn plays in their everyday life, both physically and spiritually. I talk about metaphors such as "people are corn" and "the corn is our mother" as well as introduce some of the major spirits involved in the ceremonies.




The Hopis have given me a nickname, "Corn girl". I'm not sure how to spell it but it sounds something like "Kahenema". Oh and they especially love to make fun of my mudhead!