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