Page 97 - Mistified Update June 2020_Neat

I was gazing up at them in total awe when I heard,
Miss Grace say, “Tipuna”.

“Ancestors,” said Aroha in response to my blank
look. She explained that this was a very sacred lake and
the guardians stood tall and watched over it.

It was a bit of a hike in and I could see that the
Professor was a little tired. He plopped on the first
comfortable looking lakeside boulder, took out his
camera and started taking pictures.
In stark contrast, Miss Grace walked over to the
lake, bent down and touched the water and chanted a
karakia (prayer).
It sounded beautiful. Aroha’s later translation went
something like this:

Thank you, cherished waters of this lake.

May the memories that you carry,
the stories that you hold, be brought forth

for sharing with ones who need their truth.
I give my deepest respect to the ancestors

and to our brothers, sisters, and
our children who have been lost.
Thank you, cherished water for welcoming us.

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