The Thunderbird and the Great Storm
Here is a story about the Thunderbird, inspired by traditional tales from the Indigenous peoples of North America, including those of the Algonquin, Lakota nations and Northwest Coast tribes.
The Thunderbird and the Great Storm
Many moons ago, the people lived in peace in the great forests and plains. But one day, a great drought struck the land. The rivers dried up, the plants withered, and the animals began to disappear. The Elders gathered to understand what was causing this terrible drought. They decided to send a messenger to the highest mountain to summon the Thunderbird, the powerful spirit of the sky.
The Thunderbird, immense and majestic, lived in a hidden cavern atop the highest peaks. With its giant wings that stretched across the sky and its eyes that shone like lightning, it was known to rule the storms and the rain.
The messenger, a young warrior named Wabash, climbed the mountain for three days and three nights. Upon arriving, he called out the Thunderbird's name at the top of his lungs, begging for its help. From the cavern, a thunderous roar was heard, and the Thunderbird appeared in all its splendor. It was furious that humans dared disturb it. Its eyes blazed with anger, and its wings unfurled, creating powerful gusts of wind.
Wabash, courageous yet humble, explained the distress of his people and how they suffered without rainwater. He asked the Thunderbird to bring rain to save the land.
The Thunderbird listened attentively and replied: " I am the guardian of the heavens and I make the rain fall according to the will of the spirits. But there is something dark in the hearts of men. The spirits are angry because they have forgotten to respect the earth that gives them life. "
The young warrior asked, " What must we do to restore the balance ?"
The Thunderbird then said: “ Return to your people. Gather them to offer prayers, dances, and offerings to Mother Earth. Honor the spirits of the forest, the rivers, and the mountains. When you have proven your respect and love for the earth, I will come with the rain .”
Wabash descended the mountain and delivered the Thunderbird's message. The Elders guided the people in ceremonies, dances, and prayers. They offered tobacco, sacred plants, and songs to the spirits. They swore to respect the land and protect nature's gifts.
That night, the sky darkened. Lightning illuminated the mountains, and the Thunderbird began to beat its wings. Thunder rumbled, and a gentle, life-giving rain began to fall on the parched earth. The rivers filled again, the plants regained their vibrancy, and the animals returned.
Since that day, people have never forgotten to honor the Thunderbird and respect Mother Earth. They know that every drop of rain is a gift, and that the Thunderbird always watches over them, ready to remind humankind of the importance of living in harmony with nature.
Source: “Thunderbird and Other Stories” by John Bierhorst
Ancient legends continue to live on through the actions of the craftsman who perpetuates their memory.Creations inspired by the spirit of legends
Each piece is handcrafted on the Nitassinan by the Ilnu craftsman Dave Verreault-Thisselmagan.
Indigenous dreamcatchers
Protection • Dreams • Guidance
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