Native American Proverbs And Blessings Poem by Michael Burch

(loose translations by Michael R. Burch)

Native American Travelers' Blessing

Let us walk together here
among earth's creatures great and small,
remembering, our footsteps light,
that one wise God created all.



Native American Prayer

Help us learn the lessons
you have left us
in every leaf and rock.



What is life?
The flash of a firefly.
The breath of the winter buffalo.
The shadow scooting across the grass that vanishes with sunset.
―Blackfoot saying, loose translation/interpretation by Michael R. Burch



Warrior's Confession

Oh my love, how fair you are—
far brighter than the fairest star!



The soul would see no Rainbows
if not for the eyes' tears.



A brave man dies but once,
a coward many times.



When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced.
Live your life so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice.
-White Elk



A woman's highest calling
is to help her man unite with the Source.
A man's highest calling
is to help his woman walk the earth unharmed.