Original Poetry

Below is a poem that I wrote for my Honors 231 class last spring. We were given specific instructions to include an aspect of Native American life in the poem, so I chose to focus on the Native American belief of reciprocity. In terms of health, this means respecting the universe. If you were to do something like cut down a tree (nature was a huge part of Native American beliefs), the universe would retaliate by making you sick.


The Key to Staying Healthy

I woke up as early as the sun one winter morning

And knew right away the day would be boring.

So much for the exciting plans that I had made

To go with my friends to Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

While they would be out having fun,

I’d be lying in my bed having none.

With no energy to move, all I could do is sleep,

And dream about leprechauns and cloverleafs.

After a week of bed rest and meds, I still felt the same

And wondered how much longer it would take me to get back in the game.

I thought I had been doing everything right,

But this sickness was putting up a damn good fight.

I then finally remembered what the Native Americans once said:

Reciprocity is key; no need for meds.

In this sacred world, respect all things,

And you will not catch what sickness brings.

Now I know I will never forget

To treat everything like you would want to be treated,

And sickness will always be defeated.