Every thought is a prayer

Today is going to be really great; I’ll be gathering with some women to pray together. There’s a special energy that flows when we come together, sharing our hearts and intentions.

I used to visit Musqueam often to join the healing group led by Jeri Sparrow. Those gatherings were incredibly healing for me, especially after my son passed away. Being surrounded by women who focused on traditional healing helped me navigate my grief, and I truly miss that sense of community.

I also participated in the Sun Dance, even though it’s not my own tradition. My dad taught me to learn about other traditions as a sign of respect, but he always reminded me to hold onto my own identity. Gitxsan spirituality is rooted in simplicity; we believe that the spirit of the Creator is within us and around us. Every thought we have is a prayer, a way to connect with the world. We respect all spirits and all forms of life because our ancestors walk with us every day, and each moment is sacred.

My grandfather and family often used the sweat lodge before going hunting. They taught me that the sweat lodge served a practical purpose: it helped to cleanse us, ridding us of our human scent. This practice connects us to the animals we seek, allowing us to approach them with humility and respect. Since every thought is a prayer, we are constantly giving thanks for the life we take.

In many spiritual practices across different cultures, there are similar themes. For instance, Indigenous peoples around the world often engage in rituals that bring them closer to the earth and the spirits of the land. Whether through sweat lodges, vision quests, or communal prayers, the essence is the same: a deep respect for life and a recognition of the interconnectedness of all beings.

As we gather today, we honor that connection. We come together to share our prayers, to heal, and to remind each other of the strength we carry within us and the sacredness of each day.


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