I recently had the opportunity to travel through the Southwest with a group that included Maori Grandmothers from New Zealand as well as native Native American Grandmothers from the United States. Our group’s purpose was to learn from our Native American hosts and to share love, joy, truth, and peace.
We were welcomed by Hualapai, Hopi, Navaho, Acoma, and Laguna tribe members across the region. It was an experience unlike any I’ve ever had. I was so touched by the warm reception and deep-hearted connections.
Sitting around a fire one evening, the Hopi elders shared their history, their beliefs, and their hopes and dreams. They shared that the Hopi tribe is centered around its women and children. Each child belongs to everyone. When asked what it means to be Hopi, an elder explained that if you see a crying child, you comfort him. If you see a hungry child, you feed him. And everyone is a child. A Hopi home is a living being with a heart, and all are welcome.
The Hopi, as well as all the other indigenous people we encountered expressed a deeply held belief that the Earth is our Mother, and we must take care of Her. She is the source of life, not a resource. Before you take from Her, you ask permission. You take only a little, always give something back, and express gratitude for all you receive.
I am grateful for the wisdom...
(New photos on website Gallery: wandernature.com/new-photos)