Dennis
Meehan, Eagle Soaring, was born in Wisconsin in 1937 and always had a
connection with the Native American cultures. He is one-eight Oglala
Sioux. His Great Grandmother was the daughter of Chief Red
Cloud.
He began his work as a wildlife artist in San Diego, CA where he was a
director and founder of the Art Institute of San Diego.
His work as a Medicine Wheel artist began in 1989 when the minister of
his church, Dr. Sharon Stroud, asked him to create a power shield for
one of the members making his transition to the Spirit World. The
shield was used as a centerpiece for the memorial service. Later, two
people attending the service commissioned him to create a personalized
medicine shield for them.
Sun Bear, a famous Chippewa earth prophet, author and lecturer, was a
tremendous influence on Eagle Soaring. In 1991 he was invited by Sun
Bear to study with him and join him on the speaking circuit to talk
about the Medicine Wheel. This alliance was never formed because Sun
Bear made his transition to Spirit on June 19, 1992.
Eagle Soaring promised Sun Bear prior to his departure that he would
dedicate the rest of his life to carrying the message given to him by
Sun Bear. His lectures and speaking engagements throughout the
country, in conjunction with his art shows, encourage people to step
forward to use the wisdom of the Medicine Wheel; the sacred hoop
called Mitakuye Oyasin which means, "All My Relations."
His teachings help humans to understand that there is no separation
between mankind, the animal kingdom, the plants and the rocks. He
states, "All things on earth have a common bond. When the earth
mother speaks to you or the animals come to you, this is a message
from the Great Spirit. Learn this simple wisdom and you can break down
the barriers that keep you stuck."
Eagle Soaring's list of accomplishments over his lifetime is an
absolute marvel. He always says, "I have done none of it.
Spirit has used me as a vehicle. The work I do is the rent I pay for
the space I occupy on this planet."
Eagle Soaring received a letter from the United Nations Development
Programme Division of Public Affairs inviting him to offer a one hour
lecture/workshop to SEAT (United Nations Society for Enlightenment and
Transformation) on Thursday, April 17, 1997. The letter stated:
"We are very interested in your work and understanding of world
unity, and the way in which an understanding of the natural world and
its rhythms and messages can assist this. We look forward to your
visit."
Eagle Soaring's speech at the United Nations was so well received that
he was asked to submit a summary of this vital message which is to be
published in the United Nations quarterly newsletter.
Long may his voice/message be heard as he continues to honor his
promise to Sun Bear!
Aho Mitakue Oyasin