The Strawberry Moon is often called the Heart Berry Moon. It carries the powerful medicine of reconciliation and forgiveness. Across Turtle Island, this moon is celebrated with feasts and gatherings. At Indspire, we honor the teaching of letting go of judgments and embracing unity. It is a time to renew relationships—with ourselves, our families, and our communities.
As the warmth of summer settles across the land and the first ripe berries peek from their stems, we welcome Ode’miin Giizis, the Strawberry Moon. This sixth moon of the year is often known as the Heart Berry Moon, a time of reconciliation, love, and community healing.
Strawberries, or ode’miinan in Anishinaabemowin, are considered sacred medicine. Their bright red color and heart shape remind us of the importance of emotional healing. This moon teaches us to cleanse our hearts, to let go of past hurts, and to move forward in peace—with ourselves, our families, and our communities.
The First Berry
Strawberries are the first berry to ripen, and as such, they’re often the first offered in ceremonies. Our Elders teach us that strawberries symbolize new beginnings and sweet renewal. They carry teachings of love—not romantic love, but the deep, unconditional love that connects all living things.
I remember one summer when we gathered as a community to pick strawberries for our seasonal feast. There was a quiet sacredness to it—elders and children alike carefully plucking berries from the ground, sharing stories, and laughter between the rows. One Elder said to us, “Each berry you pick, offer a prayer. You’re not just feeding your belly. You’re feeding your spirit.”
That moment taught me the difference between harvesting and receiving a gift from the land.
A Time for Reconciliation
Strawberry Moon is also called the Reconciliation Moon, and its message is profound: forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves. Just like the berry’s sweetness balances the acidity in our systems, we are asked to balance bitterness with compassion.
This is a powerful time to reflect on where we may be carrying old wounds. Are there relationships that need mending? Are there parts of ourselves we need to forgive?
I once heard a Knowledge Keeper explain:
“When you hold a grudge, it’s like carrying a sour berry in your heart. You have to spit it out so the sweet ones can grow.”
That teaching stayed with me. It reminded me that holding on to pain may feel protective, but it also keeps us from experiencing joy. During this moon, many communities hold gatherings, feasts, and ceremonies to reconnect and heal together. These are not just social events—they are spiritual medicine.
Walking the Heart Road
Strawberry Moon invites us to walk the Heart Road—a path of empathy, humility, and honesty. It teaches that true strength comes not from force, but from vulnerability. When we open our hearts, we allow ourselves to see others clearly and to be seen in return.
This moon is also a beautiful time to connect with loved ones, to offer gratitude, and to remember the teachings of respect and kindness. Even small acts of gentleness—a kind word, a shared meal, a listening ear—can heal more than we realize.
Ceremony and Sweetness
If you can, take time during this moon to sit with the Earth, taste fresh strawberries, and reflect on your emotional journey. You might place a bowl of berries on your altar or offer some back to the land as a sign of gratitude.
Think of someone who may need your forgiveness—or whose forgiveness you may need. You don’t have to say the words aloud. Even the intention of reconciliation plants the seed.
This moon reminds us:
“Healing doesn’t have to be heavy. Sometimes it’s as simple as sharing something sweet.”
In this Strawberry Moon, may your heart be light, your spirit renewed, and your relationships filled with kindness. Let the heart berry guide you toward reconciliation—with others, with the land, and most importantly, with yourself.
