Why the leaves fall
A Lakota Legend mixed with a little magic from the Lantern.
Many moons ago when the world was still very young, the plant and animal life was enjoying the beautiful summer weather. The plants swayed in the sun while the animals drenched their bellies in the sun, they all danced with the butterflies and listened to the symphony of the crickets while watching the shooting stars of summer . But as the days went by the sun did not shine as long, autumn was slowly beginning to set in, the weather became colder with each passing day.
The grass and flower folk were in a sad condition, for they had no protection from the sharp cold. “We’re so cold grandfather sky, grandmother earth can we come burrow with you and the moles under the earth?” But each day seemed a tad colder, Just when it seemed that there was no hope for living, he who looks after the things of His creation came to their aid. Great spirit said, that the leaves of the trees should fall to the ground, spreading a soft, warm blanket over the tender roots of the grass and flowers. To repay the trees for the loss of their leaves, he allowed them one last bright array of beauty.
That is why, each year, during Indian summer, the trees take on their pretty farewell colors of red, gold, and brown. As you notice the changing leaves, think of the year, the harvest, the scenes each of these leaves have seen. What they have held space for, what they have honored. As the give their grand finale of all of their beautiful colors, these are their grand farewells of love, honor, respect, their prayers and blessings to you and the earth and a final reminder that they will see you early next spring with their new leaves. After this final display the leaves turn to their appointed task-covering the Earth with a thick rug of warmth against the chill of winter.
Creating a beautiful warm blanket of beautiful colors for Mother Earth and the plant and flower folk.