Broken Copper

Raven gathers all of his belongings, including a large copper plate, which is intricately carved and very valuable. He invites all of his friends to a party. All of the animals, all of the people. He invites every bird and fish and land creature, and they all come to Raven’s party.

            At this party, which has much singing and dancing and food, takes place on the beach with a fire, and everyone is there. At this party Raven takes his copper plate. They call it a Tinàa. A Tinàa is what they call the copper plate. At this party, Raven breaks his Tinàa into pieces, many pieces, and he gives the pieces to his guests. Each guest receives a piece of Raven’s valuable copper plate.

            It is how it is done. The wealthy must give away their wealth, for wealth is worthless if it is held by only one; wealth is most valuable when it is held by all.

Heh.