Native Thoughts

I am bothered what to believe. Some years ago a good man, as I think, came to us. He talked me out of all my old faith; and after awhile, thinking that he must know more of these matters than an ignorant Indian, I joined his church, and became a Methodist. After awhile he went away; another man came and talked and I became a Baptist; then another came and talked and I became a Presbyterian. Now another one has come and wants me to be an Episcopalian. All these people tell different stories, and each wants me to believe that his special way is the only way to be good and save my soul. I have about made up my mind that either they all lie, or that they don't know any more about it than I did at first. I have always believed in the Great Spirit, and worshipped him in my own way. These people don't seem to want to change my belief in the Great Spirit, but to change my way of talking to him. White men have education and books, and ought to know exactly what to do, but hardly any two of them agree on what should be done.
- Spotted Tail, Brule Lakota