A Time of Giving Thanks: Reflections from Our Time with the Mamos
- Denise Gindhart
- Nov 21
- 3 min read
As we gather in this season of Thanksgiving, we pause to reflect on the many blessings in our lives—family, community, and the abundance of the harvest. We remember the first Thanksgiving, when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag, the "People of the First Light," came together in a spirit of unity and gratitude. Their shared meal celebrated not only the fruits of the land but also the values of cooperation, generosity, and mutual respect. Today, we honor the enduring wisdom and traditions of the Wampanoag people, and express our heartfelt appreciation for the spirit of togetherness that continues to inspire us all. May this time of giving thanks remind us to cherish our connections and celebrate the unique gifts each culture brings to our shared story.
This year, we are especially mindful of the history and wisdom of the Wampanoag. We recently spent a profound week on their ancestral land, Nantucket Island, joined by the Kogi, Mamos, and Zagas from the Tezhuna tribe—indigenous people from the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Colombia. They came to share ancient teachings deeply rooted in harmony with Mother Earth.
We owe immense gratitude to Warren and Kip Hyde, whose extraordinary generosity made this journey possible. Their open-hearted support—welcoming us into their home, helping with preparations, cooking meals, loaning vehicles, and so much more—enabled us to dedicate our time to honoring the Island and its nature deities, seeking to restore balance and harmony with the natural world.
We are also deeply thankful for the group of kindred spirits who joined us in this sacred work, bringing offerings for spiritual payments (Pagamentos)—sea shells, crystals, pine cones, rose petals, and other natural treasures to gift to the land and sea. The men traveled to Altar Rock, the Wampanoag’s sacred site, with Mamo Rodrigo and Mamo Cencio, to help rebalance the disharmony experienced by our indigenous brothers.
Meanwhile, Zaga Zumelia and Zaga Josephina led the women’s program, focusing on healing for the divine feminine and ancestral clearing. Through laughter, dance, and sacred practices, we were moved by their wisdom as healers, midwives, and spiritual guides for the community.
We were truly blessed to learn that Mother Nature received our offerings with joy. Mamo Rodrigo shared with us the name Uma Shay Uma, the Deity who presides over the Island. We were surprised and deeply touched to discover that we were the first to offer spiritual payments to nature on Nantucket, and she was happy to receive them.
As you look upon the images, we hope you feel the boundless love, appreciation, and gratitude flowing from our hearts to yours. The Mamos, Kogi, and Zagas also thank you. Your support is the reason they undertake this work and descend from the high mountains—to connect with their "little brothers and sisters" and share how we can collectively work with nature to restore balance and harmony on our planet.
Reflecting on our journey and the work we have done on Nantucket, we are reminded of the importance of community and collaboration. Just as the first Thanksgiving brought people together in gratitude and hope, our efforts continue to build bridges and foster unity, honoring the legacy of the Wampanoag and all who strive for a more compassionate world.
Thank you, Kip and Warren Hyde, Mamo Rodrigo, Mamo Cencio, Zaga Zumelia, Zaga Josephina, Jessica DuMoulin, and thank you to our entire community for your incredible love and unwavering support.
With infinite love, gratitude, and blessings,
Denise & Michael
*If you wish to learn more about the Mamos, we invite you to join our upcoming online event with the Elders on December 6th. If you would like to participate in sacred planetary ceremonies or sponsor their travel to the USA, please click the link below.*
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