One.
I was first recognized as a Grandmother by Grand Chief Woableza, who proclaimed: “Jonette is a spiritual Grandmother, in a youthful personage.” On one of his visits to me in Denver, he gifted me with a handmade Navajo prayer shawl. At that time I didn’t understand that being a grandmother is more than simply being wise.
Two.
Many years later a native Grandmother, who had watched me and knew my work, said “When you are ready to be a Grandmother, let me know and I will initiate you.” That’s the first I understood that holding the energy and position of Grandmother requires a special initiation. However, it didn’t feel right to ask for such an important honor.
Three.
During Covid, I did a phone reading/session for an Elder from New England, whom I knew nothing about. She asked me questions about her spiritual work and told me that she is the keeper of a Medicine Hoop of Life and holds the eastern door for Mother Earth. Then, surprisingly, she turned the tables and talked about me.
“I’ve been watching you for years. Your spirit guide, White Eagle, is also my guide. You ARE a White Buffalo Woman. Four are born every generation, one for each of the four directions. Your role is to hold the western door for Mother Earth.