Black Elk Vision Quotations

I had a vision with which I might have saved my people, but I had not the strength to do it.

To use the power of the bison, I had to perform that part of my vision for the people to see.

I cured with the power that came through me. Of course, it was not I who cured,it was the power from the Outer World; the visions and ceremonies only made me like a whole through which the power could come to the two-leggeds. If I thought that I was doing it myself, the hole would close up and no power could come through. Then everything I could do would be foolish.

When a vision comes from the thunder beings of the west, it comes with terror like a thunder storm; but when the storm of vision has passed, the world is greenier and happier; for wherever the truth of vision comes upon the world, it is like a rain. The world, you see, is happier after the terror of the storm.

It is not enough to have a vision. In order to have its power, you must enact your vision on earth for all to see. Only then do you have the power.

It is hard to follow one great vision in this world of darkness and of many changing shadows. Among those men get lost.