Think Indigenous: Native American Spirituality for a Modern World

by Doug Good Feather

We can show reverence for many things, including nature or a particular person, group, or time in history. And we must also have reverence for our ancestors on the other side. Your ancestors have your back. They help clear obstacles in front of you and send you clarity and help guide you with unseen hands. One of the ways indigenous people honor their ancestors is by feeding them. When we eat, our ancestors eat with us. This way goes back thousands of years to nearly every indigenous tribe of people on every continent. When the Lakota people prepare food for their ancestors, it’s called waéglepi—a Spirit Plate or Spirit Food. Spirit Food is endowed with the ability to maintain a quiet channel of communication for us with our ancestors and let the ancestors know they’re invited into our home or gathering. Anyone can practice this ancient way of giving reverence to our ancestors with Spirit Food. All you need to do is take a small, fork-sized amount of each food that you’re eating and place it in a little bowl, on a plate, or even in a napkin. Pour a little water, coffee, or whatever you’re drinking as well—a spoon-sized amount will do.