The Dawn
C. 2008 Jackie Tice/Saja Maka Music (BMI)

My back is painted black as night
The Northern lights dance red and high
I face the East, this yellow sky
And to the South, a white crow flies

My dress is crimson, green and gold
In my right hand, a fan I hold
The cedar smoke blows blue and bold
Pray hard, stay strong, I am told

The drum sounds loud, my mind is weak
Elk hide wet beneath my feet
I hear the voice of every beat
As I and my Creator meet

Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay
Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay
Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay

Cool, damp fog bring on a chill
In Mandaree, the air is still
The morning fog plays on the hill
I walk beside my silent will

The old ones come to hear the songs
Sleep is short, the days are long
The cottonwood stands every strong
The Spirt has returned the dawn

Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay
Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay
Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay

Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay
Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay
Ay hay ya ya, Ay ya hay