Websters Dictionary lists 27 words or phrases for the word smoke. Go to page 1109tenth edition to fact check:

“Small particles of carbon”

“Results from burning or moisture”

“Something of little substance”

“Something of little value”

Native Americans will not agree with the last.  Smoke is an important substance to them. They burn bear berry, red willow, and tobacco and let the smoke rise as praise and gratitude for the Great Spirit.

Smoke spreads everywhere especially on a windy day. Although it becomes invisible as it mixes with ambient air, it still exists in such tiny particles, that it make years to settle. And, smoke can travel worldwide.

These characteristics make it perfect for pipe ceremonies. It is a way of sending a gift to the Great Spirit. Some native tribes use the pipe for many occasions: births, deaths; trading of horses; defending their territory; coming of age; sweat lodge; harvest time; pow wow; tribal meetings; hunting; collecting firewood; foraging for roots, nuts and berries;the feast after killing of an animal; etc. Native  people send smoke before the event as well as after.

Another definition for smoke is celestial or cosmic dust which are scientific terms. Smoke in space can be seen in many gaseous nebulas like the Great Eagle Nebula.. Smoke is subject to gravity as can be seen on dusty shelves indoors. Smoke is the native way to recognize that they are part of a bigger picture that includes everything all the way to the edge of the universe.

When a teenager takes part in a naming ceremony, they get to smoke the pipe. When they start out on a vision quest, the pipe is a blessing. The pipe connects because smoke connects by virtue of the fact that that it dissipates far and wide. Smoke is mystery

Smoke can be helpful in saving people trapped in a fire. Smoke from incense produces a pungent odor that calms and stimulates the sense of smell. Burning sage is an act of purification. Smoking fish or meat is a way of preservation. Smoke to a forest ranger in a fire tower means fire. Crews are sent to contain and extinguish it. Cigar lounges keep smoke confined to a small space. Smoke is fertilizer. It can land on snow and when the snow melts, carbon and other elements fertilize soil.

Hawks and eagles are also symbols of the Great Spirit. They glide, soar, dive and are at the top of their food chain. Native people respect these birds and use tail feathers of bald eagles as fans to usher in the presence of the Great Spirit. Indeed, our first people understand the importance of honoring all connections. The Bald Eagle along with smoke are sacred symbols of their life.

Today, smoke is mart of a noxious mixture called smog; burning oil; burning garbage; agent orange; tear gas; oil wells burning out of control; on and on. We are part of a community of smoke-filled atmosphere that can cause disease and death.