Poetry

bagidenindam

I do not despise the mosquito
for he reminds me that I am living
and living is taking
but please take only what you need.

I do not despise the leech
for he reminds me that opportunity is rare
and men of action cast history
but do not forget the blood that has made fertile this soil.

I do not despise the vole
for she reminds me that this earth is shared by all
and soon my children will burrow here too
so please serve it only what you would serve yours.

I do not despise the vultures
for they remind me that death is a feather’s fall away
and we provide even in death
so live full that your portion may be filling.

I do not despise the bear
for she reminds me that I am weak
and in my weakness is your strength
but please do not flee when you see it.


Note: bagidenindam (buh-gih-dey-nihn-dum) is an Ojibwe word that means “let go” or “sacrifice.” The Ojibwe are a first nation tribe of the northern Great Lakes area.

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