SCRIPTURE: Numbers 9:16-17 16. So it was always: the cloud covered it by day, and the appearance of fire by night. 17. Whenever the cloud was taken up from above the tabernacle, after that the children of Israel would journey; and in the place where the cloud settled, there the children of Israel would pitch their tents. (NKJV) REFLECTION: According to Scriptural accounts, the first communication by “cloud” and “fire” did not occur with Native Americans but with the nomadic Israelites. However, since this passage brings to mind Native Americans, I will reflect on them. I had two interviews in February 1999. One was with a renowned black artist. The other was on the history of the Connellsville Armory. During both interviews I was confronted with treasures of the mid-west Blackfeet Indian descendents. The coincidence influenced my request to my local editor to do a story on the Blackfeet Indians. Then Penn State University, Fayette County campus, announced an upcoming program by a Blackfoot Indian. Before attending I sought some interesting questions to ask by using my modern day “cloud communicator,” my E-mail. (At my level of computer literacy I figure the messages are sent in a cloud of fire. After all, how else are they transmitted!) Years ago, Linda discovered her Native American ancestry. She gave me a list of questions to ask the speaker (whom I was to interview after his presentation): what their first and notable experiences with ancient knowledge (visions) were; what medicine they offer (gifts/healing); what their concerns were about mankind’s future in light of the unfolding of the White Buffalo prophecy; their increasing automatic-ness of contact with the Great Spirit; how they disseminated information on the unity and salvation of the living things on this planet...and more. Much of what she wanted me to ask could be approached and answered through scripture. But I’m seeking spiritual information from another culture. I am as interested in the answers as she is. And I will reply to Linda via smoke signals. Which takes us full circle. God provides various means of communication. Do you listen to him with an openness that allows you to receive the answers, even though it might be through “smoke signals?” PRAYER: Lord, help me become more open to your ways of communication, which may not be my way. Let me hear your will for my life. AMEN ---written by Carolyn | 
