Ohenton Kariwahtekwen: Greeting To The Natural World

This reading starts with the words “Ohenton Kariwahtekwen” which means Greeting to the Natural World. The Iroquois people believe that it is a great honor and privilege to be human. Through this address, they are giving thanks by recognizing the gifts that are in their lives. After every address, there are the words “Now our minds are one”. Through these words, the Iroquois are bringing every mind together to give thanks to all the things that give them life. The inscription starts by saying that people are to live in balance and harmony with each other and all other living things. The next greeting is to Mother Earth. The address states that “she supports our feet as we walk upon her”. It states that the earth gives us all we need in life. Next, the Iroquois give
The Iroquois then thank the plants for supporting many life forms. Next, greetings and thanks are sent to the Medicine herbs and keepers of the Medicine. It states that from the beginning of time, medicine was instructed to take away all sickness. They are thankful that there are still special people around who know how to use plants and medicine to heal their people. Like fish, the animals give up their bodies as food for the Native people. The birds chirping and song reminds the people to be joyful and thankful for all that they have. The Iroquois people give thanks to both the birds and animals and hope that they stay around forever. Following, the trees symbolize peace and strength. The address states that trees provide people with shade and shelter, fruits, berries, and other useful things. The winds and thunder are also mentioned and given thanks to. The wind allows the people to breath purified air and the thunder keeps the evil things made by Okwiseres underground. The Natives mention the sun because it brings the light of the new day. They also mention the Grandmother moon and states that she “watches over the arrival of the children on