RETHINKING COLUMBUS

ft is Important
By Gail Tremblay
On dark nights, when thoughts fly like nightbirds
looking for prey, it is important to remember
to bless with names every creature that comes
to mind; to sing a thankful song and hold
the magic of the whole creation close in the heart,
to watch light dance and know the sacred is alive.
On dark nights, when owls watch, their eyes
gleaming in the black expanse of starless sky,
it is important to gather the medicine bones,
the eagle feathers, the tobacco bundles, the braided
sweetgrass, the cedar, and the sage, and pray
the world will heal and breath feed the plants
that care for the nations keeping the circle whole.
On dark nights, when those who think only of themselves
conjure over stones and sing spells to feed their wills
it is important to give gifts and to love everything
that shows itself as good. It is time to turn
to the Great Mystery and know the Grandfathers have
mercy on us that we may help the people to survive.
On dark nights, when confusion makes those who envy
hate and curse the winds, face the four directions
and mumble names, it is important to stand
and see that only our work is to give what others
need, that everything that touches us is a holy
gift to teach us we are loved. When sun rises
and light surrounds life making blessings grow,
it is important to praise its coming, and exhale
letting all we hold inside our lungs travel east
and mix its power breathing in and know we live in good
relations to all creation and sing what must be sung.
RETHINKING COLUMBUS PAGE 49