26/09/2025
You are a child of the universe
Take kindly the counsel of the earth
Gracefully surrounding the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortunes.
But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born in fatigue and loneliness beyond the whole discipline. Be gentle with yourself.
You are a Child of the Universe.
No less than the trees and the stars
You have a right to be here,
and whether or not it's clear to you
no doubt the Universe
is unfolding as it should.
Be at peace with god,
whatever you conceive him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations
in the noisy confusion of life,
Keep peace with your soul.
With all the sham, drudgery and broken dreams,
It is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful and strive to be happy.
Aho
Orville, Lakota elder
Cheyenne River reservation, South Dakota