"Let me walk in beauty..."
Meher Mount
Your Friday photo is in honor of Native American Day, September 25th...
This Native American prayer was a favorite of Meher Mount co-founder and lifetime caretaker Agnes Baron.
The photo of a sunset, as seen from Meher Mount, was taken by Juan Mendez, photographer and guest caretaker.
“Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes ever hold the red and purple sunset.”
Oh, Great Spirit,
whose voice I hear in the winds
and whose breath gives life to all the world.
Hear me! I need your strength and wisdom.
Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes
ever hold the red and purple sunset.
Make my hands respect the things you have made
and my ears sharp to hear your voice.
Make me wise so that I may understand
the things that you have taught my people.
Let me learn the lessons you have hidden
in every leaf and rock.
Help me remain calm and strong in the
face of all that comes towards me.
Help me find compassion without
empathy overwhelming me.
I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother,
but to fight my greatest enemy: myself.
Make me always ready to come to you
with clean hands and straight eyes.
So when life fades, as the fading sunset,
my spirit may can come to you without shame.
~Translated by Lakota Sioux Chief Yellow Lark in 1887
NOTES
There are slightly different versions of this prayer all with the same message. This version is sourced from Xavier University, Jesuit Resource, Native American Prayers.
Native American Day is observed in California and other states to honor the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous peoples.