The tapestry of Native American culture is interwoven with a deep respect for nature, a profound spiritual connection to the land, and a belief in a guiding force often referred to as the Great Spirit. This connection is beautifully captured in the poem "Just as the Great Spirit Planned," penned by Martha Moongazer Beard on December 31, 2004. While concise, the poem encapsulates the cyclical nature of life, the interconnectedness of all living things, and the gratitude felt by Native peoples for the blessings bestowed upon them. It is a testament to the enduring power of tradition and the unwavering faith in the Great Spirit’s design.
The poem opens with a vivid depiction of a gathering storm. "Thunder rolls over the mountain, / Grey clouds dropping low." The imagery is immediate and evocative, transporting the reader to a landscape dominated by towering peaks and an approaching tempest. The rolling thunder, a powerful force of nature, sets the stage for the renewal and revitalization that are to follow. The “grey clouds dropping low” create a sense of anticipation, hinting at the life-giving rain that is about to descend. This isn’t merely a description of weather; it’s a prelude to the awakening of the natural world, a pivotal moment orchestrated by the Great Spirit.
The subsequent lines shift the focus to the impact of the rain: "Rain falls and kisses three sisters / Who awaken and begin to grow." The "three sisters" are a reference to the traditional Native American agricultural trio of corn, beans, and squash. These plants, cultivated together in a symbiotic relationship, were a cornerstone of sustenance for many tribes. The rain, personified as a gentle kiss, awakens these vital crops, initiating their growth and ensuring the prosperity of the community. This simple yet profound imagery highlights the intimate relationship between the people and the land, and the reliance on the natural elements for survival. The act of nurturing these crops is seen as a sacred duty, a way of honoring the gifts of the Great Spirit.
The poem continues to paint a picture of revitalized waterways: "Creeks swell with the rain falling, / Streams now rivers flow / Falling from the high mountain / Into the valley below." The landscape transforms as the rain swells the creeks and streams, turning them into powerful rivers that carve their way down the mountains and into the valleys. This symbolizes the flow of life, the constant movement and change that are inherent in the natural world. The water, a life-giving force, nourishes the land and sustains all living things. This abundance is directly attributed to the Great Spirit’s influence, shaping the landscape and providing for the needs of the people.
The arrival of spring is further emphasized in the following lines: "Barren trees from winter are budding, / Life springs forth anew." The starkness of winter gives way to the vibrant colors of spring as buds appear on the once-barren trees. This is a time of renewal, of rebirth, and of hope. The phrase "life springs forth anew" encapsulates the essence of the season, a celebration of the resilience of nature and the cyclical rhythm of life. The poem subtly reminds us of the power of the Great Spirit to orchestrate this annual transformation, bringing warmth and abundance after a period of dormancy.
The animal kingdom also experiences a reawakening: "Animals awaken from sleeping, / The wind howls and tells me it’s true." The animals, dormant during the winter months, emerge from their hibernation, eager to embrace the new season. The howling wind serves as a messenger, confirming the arrival of spring and the abundance it brings. The poem suggests a deep connection between the speaker and the natural world, a sensitivity to the subtle cues that indicate the changing seasons. This connection is indicative of a worldview that sees humans as an integral part of the ecosystem, rather than separate from it.
The poem then shifts to the perspective of the Native people and their preparations for the hunt: "Soon it will be time for hunting, / Food for my people to eat." The arrival of spring signals the start of the hunting season, a time when the people can replenish their food stores and ensure their survival. The hunt is not portrayed as a mere act of necessity, but as a sacred responsibility. The animals are seen as gifts from the Great Spirit, and their lives are taken with respect and gratitude.
The act of giving thanks is central to the Native American worldview: "We give thanks for the life with singing, / And raise prayers with our drum beats." The people express their gratitude for the bounty of the land through song and prayer. The drum beats, a rhythmic pulse that echoes the heartbeat of the earth, connect them to their ancestors and to the Great Spirit. This is a time of communal celebration, of reaffirming their connection to the land and to each other. The singing and drumming are not merely acts of worship, but a way of maintaining balance and harmony in the world.
The poem concludes with a powerful affirmation of identity and belonging: "What blessing to be born native / And dwell in this peaceful land / Created for the principle people / Just as the Great Spirit planned." The speaker expresses profound gratitude for being born Native American and for the privilege of living in a land that is both beautiful and sacred. The phrase "principle people" emphasizes the historical and spiritual connection of Native Americans to the land, suggesting that they were chosen by the Great Spirit to be its caretakers. The final line, "Just as the Great Spirit planned," reinforces the belief that everything is part of a divine design, a grand plan that unfolds according to the wisdom and will of the Great Spirit. The sentiment echoes throughout the poem, solidifying the Native American understanding of their place in the world.
"Just as the Great Spirit Planned" is more than just a poem; it is a window into the Native American worldview, a celebration of the natural world, and a testament to the enduring power of faith. The poem’s simple yet evocative language creates a vivid picture of a landscape teeming with life, a community deeply connected to the land, and a belief in a guiding force that shapes all things. The poem also acts as a prayer, acknowledging the gifts of nature and expressing gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon the people.
The keywords associated with the poem – "native american poem," "native american poetry," "indian poem," "great spirit poem," "indian poetry," and "Martha Moongazer Beard poetry" – highlight the poem’s significance within the broader context of Native American literature and culture. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating Native American voices and perspectives. In a world often characterized by disconnection and exploitation, the poem offers a powerful message of respect, gratitude, and interconnectedness.
The poem "Just as the Great Spirit Planned" serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and resilience of Native American culture.
The beauty and simplicity of "Just as the Great Spirit Planned" resonate deeply, inviting readers to reflect on their own relationship with nature and the spiritual forces that shape their lives.
Finally, the title "Just as the Great Spirit Planned" itself encapsulates the essence of the poem, reminding us that all things are interconnected and part of a larger, divine plan.