It was a long drive to Oklahoma (12 hours), but we made it there in time to have dinner with my friend Brenda. The next morning, my friend was obviously frazzled with last minute details. It was no different from what I used to go through before a big meeting, symposium, or conference.

A journalism student wanted to be there to cover the "personal" side of the Indian story, and wouldn't take no for an answer. I guess she thought there would be some type of ritual - or maybe she thinks Indians shower and levitate into their clothing.

I marched with over 500 Indians to the Capitol. Along the way they stopped to remember and prayed for their deceased relatives. I walked with a very nice Comanche man who had tears streaming down his face, but he held his sign up high.

We headed over to the park in front of the capital, where the event took place. The speeches and prayers were profound, the music and dancing was amazing. The whole time men on painted horses circled the group for protection.

I'm sure none of you heard of this, so here's a news clip of the event. Towards the end of the interview, my friend started to cry. The energy and emotion was so high, it caused the reporter to cry as well.

http://www.kswo.com/global/video/pop...1&rnd=51026466

Needless to say, I'm exhaused - but I'm so glad I was there for my friends.