Reds gaining equal footing

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The old saying "it's not winning or losing, but how you play the game that counts," sounds very inspiring, if the rules of the game are just to all players. Such is not the case with the 'games' that have occurred throughout history.

The events that occurred between the Native people of the Americas and the European intruders were part of a strategically planned game called "Conquer, Divide and Annihilate." The rules of the game are quite complicated and are subject to change according to who's winning.

The game was new to the Reds and they thought they understood the rules. Initially, the Natives were on higher ground. They owned the field and they thought they could cover the bases. Relations were good and they figured they were in for a fair game. Getting to first base wasn't too difficult. They traded a few players and trinkets and the White's pitcher wasn't warmed up yet.

By second base the pitcher was in full swing. The Reds were starting to tire, their numbers reducing. The roles were changing - should be three strikes and you're out. Those people with the fancy language and scribbles counted differently. The Reds were not used to this. They were confused!

It didn't matter how well you played the game or how fast you ran. There didn't seem to be any chance of winning. The odds increased as the games progressed. The Whites kept bringing in new players. Soon they outnumbered us, we who kept dying. I think they've poisoned our drinking water! We have to stay in the game, not for the glory, but for playing the game.

Batter's up and the Whites are cocky! They have the bases covered, no way the Reds can come back. They're outnumbered three-to-one and are weak. Furthermore, they haven't quite figured out the new rules. We can entertain them! Soon there won't be enough left to make a team.

Made it to third base! Seventh inning and the Reds are up to bat. Bases are loaded. Looks like the Reds are getting a second wind. The glory of the win depends

on the wit and strength of the batter. The game has been a long time playing and still the rules are changing. The game was never fair. The Whites had experience, more players and nasty little tricks to weaken the opponent. If they couldn't wipe out the other team, they'd weaken their spirits. Occasionally, they borrowed a player to infiltrate the team.

The odds were against them but the Reds persevered. Their real strength lies in their ability to stick together and play as a team. They've managed to survive 500 years of oppression and now they're making a comeback. Numbers are growing, along with a sense of pride in being Indian and a growing spiritual reawakening.

There's still a long way to go, but the first steps have been taken. The game has a way to go to the ninth inning, but the Reds are ready to see it through. And they've learned a few tricks of their own along the way.

Batter up!