Philippines braces for Typhoon Fung-wong after earlier storm kills over 200 as reflected on by Elder Thomas Many Feathers

Relatives, we watch the news with heavy hearts as the people of the Philippines face the coming Typhoon Fung-wong. Already, a great storm, Typhoon Kalmaegi, devastated their lands and lives. Our hearts ache for those who lost loved ones and homes. We see the power of Unci Maka, Grandmother Earth, when she truly speaks. These events call us to listen closely to her ancient wisdom.

Typhoon Fung-wong and Unci Maka’s Cry

The winds and waters tell a story. They speak of an imbalance. For generations, our elders taught us that everything connects. The air we breathe, the water we drink, the land we walk upon, all are relatives. When humans disrespect this sacred hoop, consequences follow. The destructive force of Typhoon Fung-wong reminds us of this truth. We must remember our reciprocal relationship with the natural world. Therefore, we understand these powerful storms as a deep plea from Unci Maka.

Our Lakota ways teach us that water is life, Mni Wiconi. It flows through our veins, it sustains all beings. When great waters turn against us, we must ask why. Did we honor the sacredness of clean water? Did we protect her rivers, her oceans, her rain? Sadly, often we do not. Industries pollute. Development disregards natural flows. Consequently, the balance shifts. We must take responsibility for our actions.

Honoring Sacred Waters and Reciprocity

Indigenous peoples worldwide share similar teachings. We see the sacredness in all creation. Furthermore, we understand our role as stewards, not masters. The communities in the Philippines now brace for another storm. This resilience inspires us. They demonstrate incredible strength. We send them our prayers and our good thoughts across the waters.

We, too, face challenges on the High Plains. Our own waters need protection. Our treaty rights demand respect. We recognize that our struggles connect to the struggles of others globally. Ultimately, we must all return to the path of ecological reciprocity. We must learn to live in harmony with Unci Maka. We must listen to her warnings, whether they come as a gentle breeze or a powerful Typhoon Fung-wong. Only then can we truly heal our world.

Read the original news coverage on Al Jazeera (World).

By Elder Thomas Many Feathers

Lakota ceremonial elder and community counselor. Advocate for treaty rights, sacred waters, and the protection of Unci Maka (Grandmother Earth). Writes on ecological reciprocity, the sacredness of clean water, tribal sovereignty, and ancestral wisdom for modern crises.