A Start
I'm staring at the blank page of a new writing journey. I've had this domain name for a long time, but I always just had it forward to my business page. In the back of my mind, I always thought it should be something more personal.
When I was in college, a family member bought me a subscription to Sacred Journey. The magazine ended many years ago, but it was a monthly interfaith magazine that brought together articles from across different faith traditions. Buddhism, Hinduism, Native American, Muslim, Judaism, Christianity; they were all there, one right after the other. It was a fascinating glimpse into some of the similarities and differences that weave together the different faiths of the world.
In one particular issue, there was a prayer that was attributed to Chief Yellow Lark of the Lakota Sioux. I've since learned he is associated with translating it in 1887, though historical records aren't definitive about its origins. Nevertheless, it spoke to me then and I've continued to read it. In fact, I often start each day reading it.
Since it is often a part of how I start the day, I thought it would be a nice way to begin. May it be as comforting for you as it has been for me in both good times and dark times.
Oh, Great Spirit, Whose voice I hear in the winds and whose breath gives life to all the world. Hear me! I need your strength and wisdom. Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes ever hold the red and purple sunset. Make my hands respect the things you have made and my ears sharp to hear your voice. Make me wise so that I may understand the things you have taught my people. Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock.
Help me remain calm and strong in the face of all that comes towards me. Help me find compassion without empathy overwhelming me. I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother, but to fight my greatest enemy: myself. Make me always ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes. So when life fades, as the fading sunset, my spirit may come to you without shame.
Translated by Lakota Sioux Chief Yellow Lark in 1887