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.
