mitakuye oyasin

Many spiritual traditions tell us that we are all one; that we can never be apart from God, our Source; that our individual lives are entwined within the living matrix of all other beings; and, with the earth, herself; with space and time; and celestial bodies. The Lakota phrase "mitakuye oyasin" expresses this divine and permanent relationship.  The implications are astounding!  When we begin to allow these thoughts to enter our awareness, then grow into conviction, there is no turning back.  We cannot be who we used to be or cling to what we used to believe.  We are transformed.  We feel within our very being the pull of the tides, phases of the moon, exhilaration of a thunderstorm, gallop of horses across fresh snow, tears of a hungry child.  Awakening, we become more attuned and sensitive, acting in harmony not resistance, to life.  Life in all its intimate glory lives through us.  We savor the journey, humbly, and serve all of our relatives, equally.