The Three Sisters

Corn, Beans and Squash, also referred to as “The Three Sisters”, have comprised the basis of the indigenous Mexican and Mesoamerican diet for centuries.  A beautiful symbol of environmental cooperation, the corn provides a climbing stalk for the beans, the beans provide nitrogen to the soil to nourish the corn, and the squash leaves spread out, preventing competition from unwanted vegetation and shade for the corn’s shallow roots.  Revered as a type of holy trinity in indigenous South and North American cosmology, Native people have been praying to and holding ceremonies in honor of the Three Sisters for centuries.  Their mythological, cultural and nutritional significance is unparalleled.  

The Three Sisters are a fitting representation of the vision we hold for the planet – people joining together in celebration of their differences and supporting each other to thrive and grow to their fullest, most Abundant expression.  They are a symbol, also, of Service, Generosity and Acceptance; principles upon which our company is founded, and which, we believe, help to foster healthy, vibrant, peaceful and empowered communities.

On one of Terces' and Matthew’s many trips to Oaxaca, Mexico, local artists Rosario Martinez Vazquez and Ernesto Maldonado Gonzales wove them a beautiful decorative rug depicting the Three Sisters.  As an expression of our veneration, this rug now hangs in the altar inside Gracias Madre.  Ernesto and Rosario have been training at their family workshop called El Tono de La Cochinilla since they were seven years old.  This traditional style of weaving utilizes 100% natural dyes derived from plants, flowers and fruits indigenous to the region.  For more information please visit www.eltonodelacochinilla.com