January 15, 2008

Dear Kathleen,

It is with great anticipation that I await the arrival of you and your team of volunteers from the Mission of Love, on January 24, 2008. It will be a great occasion to once again visit with each and everyone. It is truly a welcoming home for those who I have met over that past couple of visits.

I cannot express adequately enough my appreciation for you and the volunteers, knowing that we are near the completion of this wonderful building that will undoubtedly change the lives of many people. Those who have built it, to those who will make it their home of heritage where we can provide education, social and spiritual interactions, have joined together to make a better life for the Lakota.

I want to share these thoughts with you and the volunteers, knowing that the fulfillment of a vision of my great-great grandfather will finally become a reality. The work accomplished on a people-to-people basis. Where help was needed, help was provided, unconditionally. Contrasted by what didn’t happen when Chief Big Foot, Sitanka, sought the assistance of the federal government, who agreed, but never kept their word.

As the last nail is driven, and the last swipe of the broom, a group of people, joined together, have accomplished a task that stood for 126 years, 5 generations, and 1 massacre. You and the volunteers of the Mission of Love, despite distances from homes, taking the time from your own lives and duties, providing personal expenses for travel, food, and lodging, offering expertise, labor, and love, enduring the elements of heat, and even, a tornado, have accomplished no one else has been able to do.

It is these thoughts that I reflect upon as I await your arrival. Everyone else, who has come into contact with this project, around the world, from Germany to Oglala watches and awaits the final nail to be driven.

On March 31, 2007, I offered a prayer to Grandfather, God, Wakan Tanka. Calling for the help needed from the four directions. A lightning bolt struck behind me in confirmation. Eagles circled upon the arrival of the Mission of Love, watching over everyone. Truly this project is supported in a spiritual blessing. In this belief, you and Mission of Love volunteers will receive back what you have given, spiritually, physically, mentally, and economically.

Respectfully,

Leonard Little Finger