KEYWORDS: Blessed to be Cherokee, Native American Poem, Native American Poetry, Cherokee Poem, Cherokee Poetry, Martha Moongazer Beard Poem, Nature Poem, Nature Poetry
The poem "Blessed to be Cherokee," penned by Martha Moongazer Beard on December 31, 2004, offers a poignant and evocative glimpse into the heart and soul of a Cherokee individual deeply connected to nature and their heritage. It’s a celebration of identity, a testament to the spiritual richness of Cherokee culture, and a powerful statement against the materialistic values that often overshadow the intrinsic worth of cultural heritage. The poem serves as a window into a world where the natural environment is not merely a backdrop, but an active participant in the speaker’s life, providing sustenance, comfort, and spiritual guidance.
The opening lines establish a powerful sense of place and belonging. "Big sky above me where Eagle roams, Mother Earth below me where I call home." These words immediately ground the reader in the speaker’s reality, a reality defined by the vastness of the heavens and the grounding presence of the Earth. The eagle, a sacred symbol in many Native American cultures, soars freely above, representing freedom, vision, and a connection to the Great Spirit. The phrase "Mother Earth" emphasizes the intimate and nurturing relationship between the speaker and the land, highlighting its role as not just a physical space but a source of life and sustenance. The land is home, a place of belonging and identity.
The poem continues to explore the symbiotic relationship between the speaker and the natural world. "Friends of the forest give life to me, Bounty in my valley is here to see." This speaks to the profound dependence on the resources provided by the forest. The animals, plants, and other elements of the ecosystem are not simply resources to be exploited, but rather "friends" who contribute to the speaker’s well-being. The "bounty" of the valley suggests a plentiful and sustainable existence, a world where nature provides for the needs of those who respect it. The speaker’s connection with nature is central to their existence, a source of both physical and spiritual nourishment.
The next stanza shifts to a more personal and reflective tone. "I awake peaceful with morning sun, I sleep under contented moon when my day is done." This evokes a sense of tranquility and harmony with the natural rhythms of the day. The speaker’s life is dictated by the rising and setting of the sun and moon, aligning their existence with the natural world. This simplicity and peace are integral to the speaker’s well-being, a stark contrast to the often-hectic pace of modern life. The poem "Blessed to be Cherokee" emphasizes the serenity found in living in accordance with nature’s cycles.
The imagery of animal companionship continues with "Bear offers her coat to keep me warm, So it has been since I was born." This portrays the bear as a generous provider, offering its fur to protect the speaker from the cold. This line further emphasizes the deep connection and reliance on the natural world for survival and comfort. It suggests a timeless tradition, a relationship with nature that has existed since the speaker’s birth. This intimate connection to the natural world is passed down through generations, emphasizing the importance of respecting and preserving the environment.
The poem then moves into the realm of spiritual connection. "Grandmother sings to her totem spirits, What pleasure I feel in her tender lyrics." This introduces the element of ancestral wisdom and spiritual practice. The grandmother, a figure of authority and knowledge, sings to the totem spirits, invoking their guidance and protection. The speaker finds immense joy in these songs, highlighting the importance of tradition and spiritual connection within Cherokee culture. The totem spirits represent the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of respecting the spiritual realm.
The senses are further evoked in the following lines: "The smell of smoke on cooking fire, Great Spirit gives me what I require." The smell of smoke conjures images of hearth and home, of sustenance and community. The "Great Spirit" is acknowledged as the ultimate provider, the source of all blessings. This line underscores the speaker’s belief in a higher power that guides and sustains them. It reflects a worldview where gratitude and reverence for the divine are paramount.
The poem returns to the theme of place with "Here by my mountain with vision dreams, Beside cool waters of life’s giving streams." The mountain and the stream symbolize sources of both physical and spiritual sustenance. The mountain provides a vantage point for "vision dreams," suggesting a place of reflection and contemplation. The stream, with its "cool waters," represents life, renewal, and the constant flow of time. This image reinforces the speaker’s connection to the land and its role in shaping their identity and aspirations.
The speaker then describes their daily life: "I hunt, I fish, I pray, I love, And hear the haunting trill of the mourning dove." This provides a snapshot of a life lived in harmony with nature and spirituality. Hunting and fishing provide sustenance, prayer nourishes the soul, and love connects the speaker to their community. The "haunting trill of the mourning dove" adds a touch of melancholy beauty, a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and death.
The penultimate stanza serves as the core message of the poem: "Blessed as Indian from my birth, Yellow iron cannot buy what this is worth." This powerfully asserts the speaker’s pride in their Cherokee heritage and rejects the materialistic values of the outside world. "Yellow iron" is a metaphor for gold or money, representing the destructive forces of greed and exploitation. The speaker declares that their cultural heritage and connection to the land are far more valuable than any material wealth. "Blessed to be Cherokee" is a statement of cultural pride and resilience.
The poem concludes with a simple yet profound affirmation: "A gift from the Great Spirit given to me, Yes, I am Cherokee." This reinforces the speaker’s sense of identity and their belief that their heritage is a sacred gift from the Great Spirit. It is a declaration of belonging, a celebration of cultural identity, and a testament to the enduring power of Cherokee heritage. The closing lines of "Blessed to be Cherokee" resonate with a deep sense of peace and fulfillment.
Martha Moongazer Beard’s poem "Blessed to be Cherokee" is a powerful testament to the enduring strength and beauty of Cherokee culture. It is a reminder of the importance of respecting the natural world, honoring ancestral traditions, and cherishing the spiritual connection to the land. It speaks to the intrinsic value of cultural heritage and the profound blessings that come from living in harmony with nature and the Great Spirit. The poem serves as an inspiration to all who seek a deeper connection to their roots and a more meaningful way of life. The enduring message of "Blessed to be Cherokee" continues to resonate with readers today.