Invoking the Powers

Sioux Poem

The Sioux Poem speaks to a religious connection with nature vastly different than that experienced by early European Americans.

Remember, remember the circle of the sky
the stars and the brown eagle
the supernatural winds breathing night and day
from the four directions

Remember, remember the great life of the sun
breathing on the earth
it lies upon the earth
to bring out life upon the earth
life covering the earth

Remember, remember the sacredness of things
running streams and dwellings
the young within the nest
a hearth for sacred fire
the holy flame of fire

Sioux poem, "Invoking the Powers," in Hettie Jones, ed., The Trees Stand Shining, New York: Dial Press, 1971