Yes, Hovenweep is kind of like Mesa Verde, but smaller, in some ways better preserved, off the beaten path a bit more - it just had a more spiritual feel due to being a bit more isolated.

Islamic cosmology is really really big that in a sense every thing is alive and has a voice - the rocks, the earth, the water, etc. Islamic cosmology in that way is often in tune with that aspect of Native American cosmology - but, the Muslim people by and large have lost that connection to the true Islamic cosmology just as most people have.

Hovenweep in Utah is beautiful - not too far from the beaten path but fairly isolated. Chaco Canyon...., lots of beautiful places. Desert and wide open spaces make the earth seem more alive in the sunrise....

I'm not a full-blood either. I am a 3rd generation Detroiter. My Grandmother and her people were Blue Creek Shawnees from Ohio. This is the part of my heritage that I identify with.

I have not been to Colorado yet, but I hope too. I am a huge fan of New Mexico I like to go to those regions where they have few tourists. I like to move about with the locals and see how they really live.

I go out in the early morning and sit by the edge of the canyon to pray and watch the sunrise. It is an incredibly spiritual and moving experience. I keep thinking of the scripture in the Bible that says even the rocks cry out and worship Him. In the stillness of the morning hours you really can hear the rocks, the wind and the trees worshipping their Creator. I can not imagine how anyone could possibily deny Allah's existence.

Words can not even describe how small and insignificant I feel in comparision. You truly become one with the earth and everything is in perfect balance.

My heart gets heavy and I truly miss this place. I can still see Allah's creation in the city, but it is just not the same. Not even close.

MASOOMA ---- YOU GOT IT!!!!

I grew up not far from the towers of our great Steal Mill!

Colorado Springs is beautiful ---- as is the rest of the Four Corners --- that is truly Allah's country!

I don't think I have been to Hovenweep --- is it another cliff dwelling, like Mesa Verde?

much love to you!

Mesa Verde is beautiful. I love Four Corners area - have you been to Hovenweep - it is awesome!

Pueblo!!!! I am native of Colorado Springs for about three generations - so Steel City man, eh?

I agree that growing up in Colorado it is hard not to respect Native American cultures.

Myself I am not full-blood native, but my mom's side of the family includes Osage blood.

Hey there!

so sorry for the late response!

I grew up in Pueblo, Colorado

I happen to believe that God rests in Mesa Verde

I love Islam ---- however, I have always followed the Native principles of the land ---- no spirtiual path better describes how we are to respect the land, the animals, and nature, itself

I guess that has always been my biggest draw, and of course, growing up in Colorado, I was taught to celebrate Native American culture and treat it, as if, it was my own (and I think it is)

please tell me about yourself

I am so happy to see that someone else has an interest in this village too. Tears have come to my eyes. The culture and spirituality moves me so deeply, it weighs heavy on my heart that most do not understand. Sometimes I really feel like a foreigner in my own home.

Please feel free to post anything you want. Tell me where you grew up, what places are you familiar with? Please tell me anything. I truly miss the Southwest and I am new at starting a village too.

Chi Megwetch! Thank You!