Saturday, December 2, 2023

Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving

Eating Thanksgiving leftovers for a fusion brunch , this morning while watching some deliciously enlightening and informative history of what could have been the first Thanksgiving meal , I stumble upon one of countless instances that go unnoticed as we take for granted the quiet cycles of Nature that determine among other things various food chains and the behavioural patterns of the many diverse living beings who co exist with us ...


Served at the first Thanksgiving were corn , beans , and squash. These three vegetables were brought to the table by Native Americans , and they were the three crops that Native Americans taught pilgrims to grow in their new terrain.


Three sisters , as these are called  Corn , Beans and Squash can grow in one field and they actually support the survival of one another 


Maize (Corn) the tallest , supports the Bean creepers that in turn support the Maize to stand firm in winds as it entwines itself to the stalks of Maize plants

And the Squash spreads itself on the soil controlling the growth of weeds , and also capturing sunlight and preserving moisture in the soil.


Agronomist Jane Mount Pleasant writes that the Three Sisters mound system "enhances the soil physical and biochemical environment , minimizes soil erosion , improves soil tilth , manages plant population and spacing , provides for plant nutrients in appropriate quantities and at the time needed , and controls weeds".


These life-supporting plants were supposedly given to the people when all three miraculously sprouted from the body of Sky Woman's daughter, granting the gift of agriculture to the Iroquois nations.


To the Iroquois people , The Three Sisters ... Corn , Beans and Squash ... are the physical and spiritual sustainers of life. 


In the mythology of the Iroquois and Huron of North America , the Woman Who Fell from the Sky is an ancient ancestor. 

Also known as Sky Woman or Ataensic , she plays a central role in the creation of the earth and all living things. 

She is also a figure of fertility who provides the first corn to people.


Isn't it interesting to see how science and mythology team up to add charm , spice and meaning to human existence ...








ay we learn to enjoy our histories , not take the ancient bows and arrows too seriously , live in peace , mutual respect and love , and may God bless us , our loved ones , our ancestors and our future generations 💖🎊🎉💐💐💐



No comments: