In the old days, Native American tribes often gathered for council, discussion, and planned battle strategies in an open forum.  Order was kept at these events so as to allow everyone present to express their ideas or grievances in an orderly manner.  To help accomplish this, a venerated object was employed known as the Talking Stick.  Gatherings were usually organized in the form of a sacred circle and the Talking Stick was passed around from person to person.  Only the person holding the stick was allowed to sit or stand and speak their mind. It was said that only the heart felt truth could be spoken while holding it.

These special objects were made from sticks that were gathered with great care and consideration.  From inception to completion, its creator was said to have been guided by a shammanic journey or vision.  Such visions directed its creator to adorn or paint the Talking Stick with elaborate designs and colors. Feathers, shells, beads, stones and crystals dangled from wood, bone or antler, enhancing the stick's significance.