Rex Western,

Since you do not address me by name I take the liberty you were speaking to me so I will answer and trust I will not speak out of place.

I can only speak for what I know and what is customary to my clan and the things I have been taught. I cannot speak for others, other tribes and their ways. This is what I know. The use of a white and blue feather together by some Apache is significant. The feathers themselves, their specific colors and being together all are significant. More common however, is the use of a blue and white stone but the meaning is the same.

You must first understand some basic Apache beliefs. To the Apache there are four sacred colors, black signifies the East, yellow signifies the West, white the North and blue the South. Also, and of great importance is Yolkai-Nalin, the most esteemed and feared Apache deity. Also know to the Apache as white shell girl, she alone controls birth and death and her power and will is second only to yosen (the Apache God). Yolkai-Nalin is always signified by the color white.

Duklishi-Skhin, born in the blue clouds ia a much revered Apache deity who aided Yosen in the creation of people, animals and plants. He is also known as turquoise boy to the Apache and he is always signified with the color blue.

When an Apache prays to Yolkai-Nalin and Duklishi-Skhin, or observes one of the ceremonies connected with them, a blue and white stone, or feathers, or beads, or shells are used with the ceremony, prayer and offerings. Sacred pollen of the tule or pinion is also always used in these ceremonies and prayers. The feathers, stones, beads or shells of the specific blue and white colors signify respect, reverence, purity of your words and heart and serve as a medium between yourself and the deities.

Using these items, which are considered sacred, prayers are said to the deities, speaking to them and sometimes asking for wisdom and guidance or for goodness and mercy. These ceremonies and prayers are very private matters of individuals or one or two other persons, sometimes they are used in band or clan ceremonies involving mountain spirits (gan). The prayer ceremony can be held at any time and any place but when done at a place of chidin bi-yi (spirit power) the significance is greatly heightened.

With me always I carry sacred pollen and a blue and white stone.

spirit