I am Bitahnii Wayne Wilson, a Diné (Navajo) Baha'i from the remote community of Pine Springs on the Navajo Nation in Arizona. I belong to my mother’s Bitahnii (Folded Arms Clan) and am born of my father’s Toh ahee dliinii (the Two Waters that Flow Together Clan). I also belong to my maternal grandparents’ Toh di'chiinii (Bitter Water Clan) and my paternal grandparents’ Tsi'najinii (Black Streak Running on the Tree Clan).

Raised by my late grandmother, Nesbah Burnside, and her brother, my late grandfather John Burnside, I was taught the foundational values of our Diné way of life. Despite the historical trauma my parents endured through boarding schools, which led them to alcoholism, my grandparents provided a home where I learned resilience and cultural grounding.

Under my grandfather John’s guidance, I began learning the spiritual teachings of the circle—connecting the four directions, seasons, and times of day with the aspects of self: emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual. These lessons were tied to the sacred mountains and shared within the hogan, my first classroom.

Life brought its challenges with loss—my grandmother in 1976, my mother in 1979, and my father in 1980. My aunts and uncles stepped in, introducing me to the Native American Church and its ceremonial use of peyote. This foundation helped me persevere, eventually graduating in 1988 from Valley High School in Sanders, AZ.

In 1989, I began studying the Baha’i Faith at the Native American Baha'i Institute in Burntwater, Navajo Nation, and later at Louhelen Baha'i School in Michigan. While pursuing higher education in Michigan, I connected with the Great Lakes tribes—the Anishinaabe, Potawatomi, and Ottawa—who welcomed me into their ceremonial traditions. During this time, I also explored Asian healing arts, including Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and Kung Fu, which enhanced my personal well-being.

Returning home, I continued my cultural journey, participating in the Yei Bi’Cheii nine-night ceremony and other sacred practices. I also developed knowledge in Navajo herbal medicine and earned certification through the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association. My commitment to healing extends globally through my work with Illuman and the ManKind Project, organizations supporting men’s accountability and growth. I am currently training with The Center for Mind-Body Medicine to integrate trauma-relief methods into my practice.

Throughout my life, the guiding principle of Hózhó has shaped my path. Hózhó is the essence of balance and harmony, a philosophy that extends to every aspect of life. It reflects the teachings of the Holy People, who remind us to walk with intention, respect, and connection to all living beings. Through the Diné’h Hozhoji K’ehngo Helix—a sacred framework—I integrate the wisdom of the four directions and sacred elements into my healing work. These teachings are not mine alone but gifts from my ancestors, shared to foster restoration and unity.

Since March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, I’ve been focused on helping my community by providing water barrels, water, food, and firewood to elders and families who are without running water or electricity. Through presentations and teachings at institutions across the U.S., I aim to honor my ancestors while sharing knowledge to foster connection and healing for all.