Sharing an Iroquois prayer

On the day before Thanksgiving, we’ll share part of a prayer long ago translated from Iroquois, called “The Thanksgivings.”

We who are here present thank the Great Spirit that we are here to praise Him.

We thank Him that He has created men and women, and ordered that these beings shall always be living to multiply the earth.

We thank Him for making the earth and giving these beings its products to live on.

We thank Him for the water that comes out of the earth and runs for our lands.

We thank Him for all the animals on the earth. …

We thank Him for the light which we call our oldest brother, the sun that works for our good.

We thank Him for all the fruits that grow on the trees and vines.

We thank Him for his goodness in making the forests, and thank all its trees. …

We thank the Great Spirit that we have the privilege of this pleasant occasion.

We give thanks for the persons who can sing the Great Spirit’s music. …

We thank the Great Spirit for all the persons who perform the ceremonies on this occasion.

Here’s hoping the very best for you and yours as you sit, dine and give thanks on Thursday. Cheers.

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