I’m sure most everyone is familiar with this speech – but when we stopped by Portland to see our friends Ryan & Holly Sharp last week, Holly had a beautiful painting she did in their home that included the words of this speech from a Hopi Elder. It’s a really beautiful speech, and something that really spoke to me amidst a lot of uncertainty in my own life right now. I hope that you find this encouraging, challenging and that it speaks to you as well.
A Hopi Elder Speaks
“You have been telling the people that this is the Eleventh Hour. Now you must go back and tell the people this is the hour. And there are things to be considered:
Where are you living?
What are you doing?
What are your relationships?
Are you in right relationship?
Where is your water?
Know your garden.
It is time to speak your truth.
Create your community.
Be good to each other.
And do not look outside yourself for the leader.”
He clasped his hands together and said: “This could be a good time!”
“There is a river flowing now very fast. It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid.
They will try to hold on to the shore. They will feel that they are being torn apart and will suffer greatly.
“Know the river has its destination. The elders say we must let go of the shore, push off into the middle of the river, keep our eyes open, and our heads above the water. And I say, see who is here with you and celebrate. At this time in history we are to take nothing personally – Least of all ourselves. For the moment we do, our spiritual growth and journey comes to a halt.
“The time of the lone wolf is over. Gather yourselves! Banish the word struggle from your attitude and your vocabulary. All that we do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration.
“We are the ones we have been waiting for.”