The Iroquois Prayer

We return thanks to our mother, the earth, which sustains us.

We return thanks to the rivers and streams, which supply us with water.

We return thanks to all herbs, which furnish medicines for the care of our diseases.

We return thanks to the corn, and to her sisters, the beans and squashes, which give us life.

We return thanks to the wind, which, moving the air has banished diseases.

We return thanks to the moon and stars, which have given us their light when the sun was gone.

We return thanks to the sun, that has looked upon the earth with a Beneficent eye.

Lastly, we return thanks to the Great Spirit, in whom is embodied all Goodness, and who directs all things for the good of his children.

Iroquois Prayer (adapted)

Back to Sky Voices

WAKAN TANKA NICI UN

May The Great Spirit Walk Always By Your Side

(Sioux)

SACRED INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN BY THE CREATOR TO NATIVE PEOPLE AT THE TIME OF CREATION

A. Take care of Mother Earth and the other colors of man.

B. Respect this Mother Earth and creation.

C. Honor all life, and support that honor.

D. Be grateful from the heart for all life. It is through life that there is survival. Thank the Creator at all times for all life.

E. Love, and express that love.

F. Be humble. Humility is the gift of wisdom and understanding.

G. Be kind with one's self and with others.

H. Share feelings and personal concerns and commitments.

I. Be honest with one's self and with others. Be responsible for these sacred instructions and share them with other nations.