The Legend of the Apache Tear
Many years ago in what is now the southwestern United States
there was a beautiful fertile valley. It was surrounded by rugged
mountains that protected it from the winds of the north. Nuts,
fruits, berries grew easily there and through the middle of the
valley ran a clear, cool, fish-filled stream. There was plenty of
food for all because the Apache never took more than they
required.
Each year, as winter grew near, the men formed a hunting party
to go out from the valley to bring back meat to keep the tribe fed
until spring. When they had chosen the direction to go for the hunt
they danced before the ceremonial fire that showed the way to the
hunt.
One year, on a nearby mountain, renegade Indians waited and
watched them. From the moves of the dance, they knew where to
attack the band of hunters.
After a furious fight, every one of the braves and all of the
ponies, except one, were captured.
When the pony returned to camp with its blanket soaked with the
blood of the Apache, the mothers, wives, and children cried such
bitter tears of anguish that when the tears fell to the valley
floor, they turned to stone.
Take one of the stones. Hold it in your hand and look at it. Now
hold it up to the light and you’ll notice that you can see
through it. The light promises the fertile valley of a better
world. Look more closely and you will notice the flaws in the
stone. It is a reminder that each of us is flawed in character.
If you carry an Apache Tear, you vow to be of service to others.
If you fail to do so, great winds will blow against you and impede
your life. However, when you do service to another, change the
Apache tear from one pocket to another as a reminder. Then gentle
winds will push upon your back and help you along the path of
life.