Joseph's testimony

Perhaps you think the Creator sent you here
to dispose of us as you see fit.

If I thought you were sent by the Creator,
I might be induced to think you had a right to dispose of me.

Do not misunderstand me, but understand fully
with reference to my affection for the land.

I never said the land was mine to do with as I choose.

The one who has a right to dispose of it is the one who has created it.

I claim a right to live on my land
and accord you the privilege to return to yours.

Brother, we have listened to your talk coming from the father in Washington,
and my people have called upon me to reply to you.

And in the winds which pass through these aged pines
we hear the moaning of their departed ghosts.

And if the voices of our people could have been heard,
that act would never have been done.

But alas, though they stood around,
they could neither be seen nor heard.

Their tears fell like drops of rain.

I hear my voice in the depths of the forest,
but no answering voice comes back to me.

All is silent around me.

My words must therefore be few. I can say no more.

He is silent, for he has nothing to answer when the sun goes down.




                                ...of the Nimi'ipuu