Reunion Island -- 2004

Reunion Island is a progressive country inhabited by Creoles (the original people), French, and East Indians from nearby India.  The main industry is sugar cane, harvested mostly by the Creoles. The climate is tropical, conducive to growing various types of fruit:  bananas, papayas, coconut, oranges, lemons, and others.  Many religions exist peacefully:  Christian (predominantly Catholic), Moslem, Hindu, and Buddhism.  The island is aptly named because the natives state that Creoles, French, and East Indians should live side by side, harmoniously.

In unison with the president of the “L’Association L’Envol” (which translated into English means Association in Flight),  Francine Straight-Arrow led the following activities:

1) Seminar on “Native American Spirituality; 2) Medicine Wheel Ceremony; 3) Sweatlodge Ceremonies; 4) Video Presentation; 5) Vision Quest; 6) Shamanic Healing Sessions for Individuals; 7) Medicine Card Readings.

Interest was high as shown by attendance at each of the activities:  75 for the Seminar, 8 for the Vision Quest, 20 for the Sweat lodges, and 50 for Healing and Card Readings.  Many of the participants requested that Francine return next year (2005) to continue teaching.

Two of the greatest challenges of this trip were the twenty-one hour air flight to Reunion Island and teaching all sessions in French, the language of the natives. They appreciated Francine’s efforts.  In turn, some attempted to converse in English.

Much gratitude is felt toward our Native American brothers and sisters who share their lives and beliefs, toward Great Spirit who provided the vision through Spider, and lastly towards the Association and all the peoples of REUNION ISLAND.