To meditate in the morning is to prime the mind and soul for the days' work. It is to get one's mind in gear. Like balancing a tire, to balance the mind and soul is to even out the internal pressure so that things can run more smoothly.

When we greet the seven directions (the four winds, sky, earth and Spirit) we sometimes find ourselves spending more time and attention with one than the others. This is okay. One area may need more help than the others. Where we feel weakness we need to make a little more effort at strengthening. Then we can face the day feeling well-rounded.

The world is Spirit, and we are a part of the world. When we smudge, we link ourselves to the rest of what is Spirit. We find brotherhood, we experience belonging, we see ourselves as allies with every golden glint off the leaves.

When we balance ourselves and correct what's off by willingly stepping toward the good, we are acting in behalf of Spirit for the betterment of the world. Every little thing we do to become better people is an act of Spirit.

We do not have to all behave the same way. You are just as much a part of Spirit as anyone else, no matter how you look, think, speak or dress. But no matter who you are, when you do your best to achieve harmony and balance in this world, you are turning the wheel forward for all of us.

Thank you, all our relations.