The Thunderbird and the Great Storm

This is a story about the Thunderbird, inspired by the traditional stories of the indigenous peoples of North America, including the Algonquin, Lakota and Northwest Coast tribes.

The Thunderbird and the Great Storm

Many moons ago, people lived in peace in the great forests and plains. But one day, a great drought struck the land. The rivers dried up, the plants withered, and the animals began to disappear. The Elders gathered to understand what was causing this terrible drought. They decided to send a messenger to the highest mountain to call the Thunderbird, the powerful spirit of the sky.

The Thunderbird, immense and majestic, lived in a hidden cavern high atop the highest peaks. With giant wings that stretched across the sky and eyes that flashed like lightning, he was known to rule over storms and rain.

The messenger, a young warrior named Wabash, climbed the mountain for three days and nights. When he arrived, he shouted the name of the Thunderbird with all his breath, asking for help. From the cavern, a sound of thunder was heard, and the Thunderbird appeared in all his glory. He was furious that humans dared to disturb him. His eyes blazed with anger and his wings opened, creating powerful gusts of wind.

Wabash, brave but humble, explained the plight of his people and how they suffered without rainwater. He asked the Thunderbird to bring rain to save the land.

The Thunderbird listened attentively and replied: " I am the guardian of the skies and I make the rain fall according to the will of the spirits. But, there is something dark in the hearts of men. The spirits are angry because they have forgotten to respect the earth that gives them life. "

The young warrior asked, " What must we do to restore balance ?"

The Thunderbird then said, " Return to your people. Gather them together to offer prayers, dances, and offerings to Mother Earth. Honor the spirits of the forest, rivers, and mountains. When you have proven your respect and love for the land, I will come with rain ."

Wabash came back down the mountain and delivered the Thunderbird's message. The Elders led the people in ceremonies, dances, and prayers. They offered tobacco, sacred plants, and songs to the spirits. They swore to respect the land and protect nature's gifts.

That night the sky grew dark. Lightning flashed across the mountains, and the Thunderbird began to flap its wings. Thunder rumbled, and a soft, healing rain began to fall on the parched earth. The rivers filled again, the plants regained their brightness, and the animals returned.

Since that day, people have never forgotten to honor the Thunderbird and respect Mother Earth. They know that every drop of rain is a gift, and that the Thunderbird is always watching over them, ready to remind people of the importance of living in harmony with nature.

Source: “Thunderbird and Other Stories” by John Bierhorst