In this philosophical exploration, Mi’kmaq Elder George Paul shares his traditional knowledge with those on a quest to better understand themselves and the world around them. Practiced and maintained by North American Indigenous tribes since time immemorial, this search for spirituality is informed by traditional knowledge, oral tradition and the use of symbols relating to our environment and to our universe. From the ceremonial to the sacred, George Paul meditates on the Indigenous legends, stories and designs of his ancient ancestors that offer new prospects to a modern population all across Turtle Island who are hungry to look inward.

With creation stories, buffalo sage and tapping into our spirit guides, Sacred Thought: Mi’kmaq Meditations for our Times is a book for those who are looking for balance and peace of mind in the chaos and confusion that govern the world today.

Elder George Paul, or Spirit name “Sky Blue Eagle”, was born on Metepenagiag First Nation, which runs along the Miramichi River in New Brunswick. For over four decades, George Paul has been involved with the Indigenous Traditional Movement to support the revival of Mi’kmaq songs, chants and ceremonies. Well-respected across Mi’kma’ki Elder Paul is recognized for being a leader in the field of Indigenous Studies, and is also well known for his public speaking abilities.

A voice for his people, Elder Paul also collaborates with schools, universities, and government agencies to support the development of Indigenous music, language, art and dance in school curriculum. Elder Paul is the author of two books, The Honour Song (Bouton d’or Acadie) and My Journey to The Honour Song. He has also been involved in the production of several documentaries with the University of New Brunswick, Aboriginal People Television Network (APTN) and the CBC.

Elder George Paul's profile page

• Commended, Featured in CBC Books "54 works of Canadian nonfiction to check out this fall"