I spent some time in North and South America among the indigenous people we often call Indians. From them, I learned how to connect with the primal forces of nature and, most importantly, with myself. I learned how to feel everything around us. From these experiences, the following story was born:
In the village of the Red Hawk, nestled deep in a valley between mountains and rivers, lived a girl named Little Luna. Her long black hair glistened in the sun, but her eyes often reflected confusion—she was searching for her path, but she could not find it. The village elders knew that her initiation into adulthood was near, but Little Luna did not yet understand what that meant.
One evening, as the moon cast its glow over the village, an elder named Blue Wolf came to visit her. He sat beside her by the fire, his voice gentle as he spoke.
Blue Wolf: “Luna, I see that you carry questions in your heart. I know you are searching but don’t yet know what you are looking for. What weighs on you?“
Little Luna lowered her head. “I don’t know how to find my way. Everyone in the village knows who they are—hunters, healers, singers. But I feel lost.”
Blue Wolf smiled and placed a hand on her shoulder. “Every journey begins with a search, Luna. But to find your way, you must first know who you are. Come, it is time for your test.”
The next morning, the villagers gathered at the edge of the village. Blue Wolf handed Little Luna a bag with a little food, some water, and a red hawk feather.
Blue Wolf: “This feather will guide you. When in doubt, look at it. When you return, you will know your way.”
Without further explanation, she was sent on her journey. She walked through forests and across rivers, listening to the whispers of trees and the songs of birds. But on the third day, loneliness pressed heavily on her chest. She sat on a stone by the path and took out the feather.
Little Luna: “What do you want to tell me? Why am I here?”
At that moment, a real red hawk flew overhead, circled her, and disappeared into the distance. Luna felt she had to follow it. After hours of walking, she reached a cliff where the hawk sat on the edge, its sparkling eyes fixed on her. She stared at its calm posture and asked:
Little Luna: “How do you know where to fly? How do you know who you are?”
The hawk did not answer, but she found deep peace in its gaze. Then she understood—the answer was not in the questions but in trusting her feelings and taking steps without fear of making the wrong choice.
When Luna returned to the village, the villagers greeted her with a big fire. Blue Wolf smiled widely as he approached her.
Blue Wolf: “Tell us, Luna. What have you learned?”
Little Luna stepped forward, her head held high and her eyes bright. “I have learned that the answer is within me. I don’t need to know everything before I begin my journey. I have learned to trust my heart.”
The villagers applauded, and Blue Wolf added, “Welcome to the circle of adults, Little Luna. From now on, your voice will be part of our community. Your courage will guide us.”
That night, Luna sat by the fire among her family and friends. But she was no longer the girl searching for her own path. She was Red Luna, a young woman who had found peace within herself and who now supported the community with her presence, just as the community had always supported her.
The story of Little Luna reminds us of the importance of giving young people the space to find their own path. The noble old customs of initiation offered support, community, and respect for young people transitioning into adulthood. Today, we must find new ways to empower young people to discover themselves—without fear of making mistakes and with the courage to follow their hearts.