Words from Pep
The Grandfathers
Smoke rose toward
overhanging branches as a long handled pitchfork disturbed the embers.
Twenty-eight cobble sized “Grandfathers” of smooth glacial granite had been in
the fire for over an hour and radiated impatience for the sweat lodge to begin.
Respectfully, on hands and knees we entered a lone east-facing door circling a
central depression in Mother Earth, men on one side, women the other. From the
fire, seven times I am handed the fork holding a single Grandfather and in
thanksgiving place them in the depression - “Boozhoo Mishomis” (welcome
Grandfather). . . . . . A canvas door flap swings down and all is dark accept
for the warm ruby glow at our center. An aroma of sweet-grass and tobacco fills
the lodge as a pipe is lit, smoked, and an offering of prayer ascends bringing
silence and introspection. . . . . . Here, in this womb of safety you can look
within to look beyond. Here, as we journey inside this ancient ceremony
solidarity grows while respect and companionship encircle our hearts. . . . . .
A single drum sounds, sets the pace and the first of four songs begins
accompanied by shakers of turtle shell, gourd, rawhide. The temperature soars
and breathing becomes heavy as water showering from a branch of cedar releases
the wisdom of the Grandfathers. Condensed steam and sweat drip from my beard,
run down my body, carry away the trivial and vain as I am forced to confront
only the essentials of life. Discomfort increases, a reflection of our
struggles and pain in this world. . . . . . Four times, seven Grandfathers are
added to the already searing center of our lodge. Four times we embrace the
sacred darkness to look within and look beyond. . . . . . Every lodge brings
meekness to my soul and the realization of our need for grace in order to live
- grace from our Creator and grace from one another. . . . . . Standing before
the ashes where once twenty-eight Grandfathers rested I hold tobacco next to my
heart and offer thanksgiving for ALL the experiences of life. At this moment,
in focused awareness, I am attuned to the Presence within and without of the
Father of Creation. “Migwetch”, I say (thank you).
--
ONE WORLD - ONE FAMILY OF MAN - ONE CREATOR OF ALL
ONE WORLD - ONE FAMILY OF MAN - ONE CREATOR OF ALL
