Binding the Tinder

I spread the tuft of milkweed down across a sun-warmed sandstone ledge, letting the noon warmth bake out any lingering moisture. To keep the airy fibers from catching the canyon draft, I took a thin, flexible shaving of dry cedar bark from my pouch. Kneeling low, I nestled the white fluff into the bark's natural hollow, pressing it snug with the edge of my curved hand. Working with steady turns, I wound three tight loops of pale yucca cord around the small cylinder and knotted it firm. In Lakota, tinder guarded safely against dampness is part of preparing for the fire—*ileya*. Held secure within its wooden sheath, the bundle rests dry and solid.