“When a child, my mother taught me the legends of our people; taught me of the sun and sky, the moon and stars, the clouds and storms. She also taught me to kneel and pray to Usen for strength, health, wisdom, and protection. We never prayed against any person, but if we had aught against any individual, we ourselves took vengeance. We were taught that Usen does not care for the petty quarrels of men.”

– Geronimo [Goyathlay], Chiracahua Apache

 

©Kathy Alexander/Legends of America, updated May 2025.

Also See:

Apache – Fiercest Warriors of the Southwest

Indian Proverbs & Wisdom

Legends, Myths & Tales of Native Americans

Native American People

Native American Tribes