I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a gathering of the 13 Indigenous Grandmothers this past weekend in New York City. I'd heard of the Grandmothers and their wisdom-sharing work before, but to experience their presence in person was a true gift.
The Council of the 13 Grandmothers came together in 2004, following a common vision received by the Grandmothers and Jyoti Jeneane Prevatt of the Center for Sacred Studies. The Indigenous Grandmothers come from Africa, Central America, Mexico, Nepal, Tibet, and the United States.
Since 2004, the Grandmothers have shared the wisdom of their ancestors to help light the way through these times, and to foster a renewed connection to and respect for the Earth, and the traditional/Indigenous cultures and their vital knowledge and wisdom.
The Grandmothers are Wise-Woman voices for prayer, connection to the Divine, sustainable living, and conscious Feminine action. Many spoke of the importance of women stepping forward to be 'voices for the voiceless' and to bring the Wise Women ways into all that we do.
This weekend, I had no idea of what to expect from the gathering. As I sat and observed their presence and listened to their messages, all delivered in their own unique ways, what I noticed first was a collective strength and resolve, a deeply centered wisdom that seemed rooted in the Earth.
In alignment with the traditional ways, we were encouraged to listen with our bodies rather than taking notes, because we'll remember what we're really there to hear. Usually, I'm a note-taking diva, but I put my notebook away and let my body take the notes that were most important for me.
What stood out for me, and stayed with me, were messages from Taowhywee, Grandmother Agnes Baker Pilgrim, and Takelma Indian elder; and Mazatec Elder and Curandera, Grandmother Julieta Casamiro.
Amidst all of the considerable wisdom and humor of these inspiring elders, it was Grandmother Aggie's message of being a 'voice for the voiceless' -- the Earth, the animals and creatures, the children -- and reconnecting more intimately in conversation with the Earth, with water; and Julieta Casamiro's message that it's vital to keep faith, to keep hope alive, to continue with our spiritual practice, and to use the power of prayer for healing, that found a home in me.
Their presence and way of being reminded me that strength doesn't have to be loud, flashy, and complicated; that spiritual practice, prayer, and stillness are powerful forms of service and spiritual activism; and that each of us is a vessel and voice for the Earth and greater healing.
I invite you to visit with their teachings yourself, and see what of their messages finds a home in you.
Blessings on the Way,
Jamie
Photo courtesy of the Grandmother's Council web site.
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