Prayer for a Matriarch

we call the matriarchs,
the mothers and grandmothers of our families: the homefires.

these women are our firekeepers,
the ones who tend to the life force
of our homes, hearts, and relations.

around the fires of their hearts,
our kin of all kinds gather.

they bring offerings:

playdough cookies,
dandelions in dixie cups,
heartfelt songs and stories.

around the fire of their hearts,
our kin of all kinds heal.

tears are emptied,
hands are held,
smiles return.

iskotew: a woman's heart.

a woman's heart rekindles an embered dream.

a woman's heart shares love unconditionally.

May we tend to our homefires
and keep them burning bright
for all to bask in their love's eternal light.

2023