Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message is a heartwarming and insightful documentary film that offers a rare glimpse into the Native American culture and spirituality. The movie is directed by Christine L. Reed and stars Chief Jake Swamp and Ernest Troost. The film is set in the beautiful landscape of upstate New York and takes us on a journey through the Mohawk Nation's Thanksgiving Address, which is a tradition that has been practiced for thousands of years.
The movie begins with Chief Jake Swamp, who is a respected spiritual leader of the Mohawk Nation, sharing his personal experience and understanding of the Thanksgiving Address. He explains that it is a way of giving thanks and showing appreciation for everything in the universe, from the smallest things like the air we breathe to the largest things like the sun and the stars. It is a way of acknowledging and honoring the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of balance and harmony in life.
Throughout the movie, Chief Jake Swamp shares his wisdom and knowledge of the Mohawk culture and traditions, and how they relate to the Thanksgiving Address. He talks about the importance of respect, humility, and gratitude in daily life and encourages viewers to find their own connection with the natural world.
The film also features Ernest Troost, a musician who composed the film's soundtrack. He explains how he was inspired by the Mohawk culture and the Thanksgiving Address, and how he incorporated traditional Mohawk music into his compositions. Troost's music adds an ethereal quality to the film and enhances the overall cinematic experience.
One of the most powerful and poignant scenes in the movie is when Chief Jake Swamp performs a ceremony that involves the burning of tobacco. He explains that tobacco is used as an offering to the spirits and is a way of showing gratitude for all the blessings in life. As he performs the ceremony, the camera captures the smoke rising into the sky and the birds flying overhead, creating a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world.
Throughout the movie, we also see beautiful landscapes of upstate New York, including the St. Lawrence River and the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory. These breathtaking views serve as a reminder of the beauty and richness of nature and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
One of the main themes of Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message is the importance of preserving Native American traditions and culture. Chief Jake Swamp speaks passionately about the need for Native Americans to reconnect with their roots and to pass on their knowledge to future generations. He also talks about the challenges that Native Americans face in today's world, including the loss of their land, language, and traditions.
In conclusion, Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message is a thought-provoking and inspiring film that offers a rare glimpse into the Mohawk Nation's culture and spirituality. The film is beautifully shot, and the soundtrack adds to its overall impact. It is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about Native American traditions and the importance of gratitude, respect, and harmony in life.
Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message is a 2018 family movie with a runtime of 8 minutes.
