The Story of the Sacred Tree.
Shunkmanu sat under the shade of the towering pines beside the serene lake in the Black Hills, surrounded by his eager grandchildren, Ella, Nahtayu, Alana, Elijah, Carson, Alice, Maya, and Alex. The fire crackled softly, casting a warm glow on their faces as Shunkmanu began to share the ancient story of the Sacred Tree.
"Long ago," Shunkmanu began, his voice carrying the weight of generations, "the Creator planted a Sacred Tree for all the people of Mother Earth. It stood tall and strong, its roots reaching deep into the heart of Mother Earth, while its branches reached high, as if in prayer to Father Sky."
Ella, her eyes wide with curiosity, raised her hand. "What did the tree look like, Grandpa?"
Shunkmanu smiled kindly at her. "Ah, my dear Ella, the Sacred Tree was said to be magnificent beyond words. Its trunk was sturdy, its leaves vibrant green, and its fruits were filled with the Creator's blessings."
Nahtayu, ever the curious one, spoke up next. "What kind of blessings, Grandpa?"
"The blessings of love, compassion, wisdom, and many others," Shunkmanu replied. "These were the fruits of the Sacred Tree, gifts from the Creator to guide and nourish the people."
Alana tugged at Shunkmanu's sleeve. "But what happens if people forget about the tree?"
Shunkmanu's expression grew solemn. "If people wandered far from the protective shadow of the Tree, if they neglected its fruits and turned against it, great sorrow will befall them."
Elijah frowned. "Why would anyone turn against such a wonderful tree?"
"Sometimes, Elijah," Shunkmanu explained, "people forget the importance of their spiritual roots. They become consumed by greed, anger, and fear, and in their blindness, they harm themselves and others."
Carson furrowed his brow. "But what happens if they realize their mistake?"
A glimmer of hope lit up Shunkmanu's eyes. "If they awaken from their senseless slumber and seek the Sacred Tree again, they will find guidance and healing. Wise elders and leaders will help them along the path."
Alise tilted her head. "How do we find the Sacred Tree, Grandpa?"
Shunkmanu placed a hand on her shoulder. "With open hearts and sincere intentions, my dear Alise. The journey may be long and challenging, but we grow closer to the Tree and each other with each step."
Maya thoughtfully gazed at the flickering flames. "And what happens when we finally reach the Sacred Tree?"
Shunkmanu's smile was radiant. "Ah, Maya, when we find the Sacred Tree, we find healing and wisdom, unity and purpose. For the life of the Tree is the life of the people, and as long as it stands, so shall we."
Alex, the youngest of the grandchildren, looked up at Shunkmanu with wide eyes. "I want to find the Sacred Tree, Grandpa!"
Shunkmanu affectionately ruffled Alex's hair. "And so you shall, my dear Alex, with courage, determination, and the love of our world family beside you."
As the fire crackled and the stars twinkled overhead, Shunkmanu and his grandchildren sat together, their hearts filled with the timeless wisdom of the Sacred Tree, and their spirits united in the journey ahead.
From The Sacred Tree for Grandchildren, Four Worlds Press, 2024, based on The Sacred Tree. Lotus Light Publishing, 1985.
