To enter the world of chiefs, Wapee, son of a Chief was to spend four days
and nights atop a lonely hill until a vision of the man he was to be came to
him.
The first night, no visions appeared to him and he was downhearted. But with
the dawn, the warming sun beamed upon a beautiful flower who opened her
petals and nodded towards Wapee as if to welcome him. Wapee no longer felt
alone.
When night came again, Wapee curled his body around his new friend to
protect her from the icy night winds. Three times he did this and three
times when the Morning Star rose, visions came to him foretelling of great
things to come.
When Wapee rose to leave he said,"You have comforted and counseled me well
these past three days and nights. What three wishes would you have me ask of
the Great Spirit?"
"Pray that I may have the purple blue of the distant mountains in my petals,
a small golden sun to hold close to my heart on dull days, and a furry coat
to face the cold winds in the spring."
The Great Spirit was so pleased with Wapee's thoughtfulness, he fulfilled
his prayer.
