“The Wińkté / Wapétókécá”
(“The Two Sprit Human Being”)
Copyright Samuel J. Martin Jr., December 17, 1999

In being myself and the person that I am
I am truthful, honest, and always forgiving.
Wińkté is a way of life born withiń me
In being two-spirited I am only wanting to be myself.
Masculine and feminine qualities are shared with pride and dignity
Chosen to help all others when in need.
Born, reared, and oftentimes, running from at times
The essence of life and living in harmony with all others.
I shall never harm, violate, or molest others in my actions.
I am a man, yet different, in very special ways.
A birth-right for a chance to strive and persevere amongst you.
With you, I only wish to express my inner-most beauty
I continue to learn valuable lessons of knowledge and wisdom.
Oftentimes struggling with others while maintaining balance.
That I may go on with life so my people can live.
At time I have ran to escape my people’s wrath.
Returning to the reservation, I come home.
To accept that it is not in me to run any more.
For myself and for others I must accept the way it is.
A way of life acceptable through the actions of both.
In the passing years misconceptions, attitudes, and beliefs developed.
And, have threatened the Wińkté in the most pitiful way
Yet, I can only accept, and continue to be myself.
In learning we see the realm of his purpose in life.
Honoring the Wińkté / Wapétókécá by following the Lakota Way of Life.
Prejudism and the painful hate cease to exist.
And my people begin to move in one direction, again.
A person highly respected by our ancestors oftentimes the object of wrath.
In being truthful and honest I have and will always be there for all others.
In ways that others may want to remember, or forget.
Through the painful hurt inflicted upon me I remain with pride and dignity.
Letting you know that I am still here and always will be.
When left alone to walk in beauty I am able to be amongst you.
There are actions that I take to attempt to correct the wrongs.
I respect my actions and acts of kindness and generosity.
I will always be there for others in the special way so that my people may live.