b'Ways of Knowing Long ago, back in time when we were one.We were a walking people traveling a narrow path. We had our Ways of Knowing this land underfoot. O ver time, we have become so many. So manywith no clear places to go or pathways to take us there. All working feverously for The Objective yet no one seems able to define. Once we thrived knowing our common values, cooperating together as one. But we have become so many splintered individuals now. A big forgetting occurred, replaced by stories that tell us . its every man for himself.by Bill NeimanThankfully, small but growing numbers still know and care to re-learn the old ways held deeply in the heart. There are more than a few natural gifts that can come only from the land. These natural offerings, once seemingly infinite, are now called natural resources by todays settlers. Some people show their gratitude for these gifts. Some people know that while the land still freely offers these natural resources they are not, in fact, infinite for the taking. Our futures are not guaranteed. They must be stewarded, nurtured with care, honor, and yes, even reverence. These are our common responsibilities that come with knowing how to sustain life on this beautiful land. Truthfully, more than a few of these natural resources we simply cannot live without. Folks in my community endlessly chatter about water. How much rain did yall get at your place? Hows the river doing? Are the springs still flowing up there? I understand all that. Being a dirt farmer, I live, thrive and sometimes am busted by the mercy of these natural waters.Its true each human being needs water ~ they say on average 2-3 quarts a day, not including bathing or washing our clothes or a myriad of other uses we take for granted each and every day. AI says, A human can typically survive 3 to 7 days without water, depending on ambient temperature. However, severe dehydration symptoms can start within 24 hours in hot climates. (Hot climates? Oh. What hot climates?)Okay, wait a minute. Stay with me. How bout another gift from the land? How long can you go without breathing plain ol air? AI says: Brain damage begins after 35 minutes without oxygen.Death usually occurs within 510 minutes without oxygen. Really? Air from land, you say. What?'