Seven Grandfather Teachings
Truth - Debwewin Know that everything comes from Mother Earth. Search for truth all through the day and pray to the Creator for understanding. Ultimately, truth is to know all of these teachings. The Great Spirit gives us peace that is true in every way. Sometimes truth seems hard to find but if we look within ourselves and know that we are part of Mother Earth, that is where truth lies. We are all connected. Honesty - Gwayakowaadiziwin Do not be afraid to be vulnerable and to share with others what is on your heart. Also, remember who you are and be honest with yourself as well as others. Trust in the Creator and he will give you the right words to speak. Be brave enough to face every situation and accept it for what it is. We learn from every situatuion, whether it is good or bad. Humility - Dibaadendizowin Stand in awe of Creation. We are only just a small part of the whole. Remember how insiginficant you are and know that you are not better than anyone else. Genuinely take time to care for others and do not think highly of yourself. Hope the best for others and give without expecting anything in return. Have a grateful heart. Respect - Manaaji’iwewin Understand in your heart that everyone is on their own individual journey. Do not fight fire with fire but instead if someone belittles you in some way know there is a reason why they present such a hard exterior. Remember that everyone has a pure and kind spirit within them. Honour Mother Earth and do not be wasteful, use what has been given to you. Treat others the way you want to be treated. Wisdom - Nibwaakaawin Observe the World not only from your own eyes but through the lense of another person or animal. Use the gift that the Creator has given you to help others. Acknowledge that everyone is their own individual person with their own unique qualities. Take time to be still and be in solitude, it is in this way you will be able to tune into Mother Earth and appreciate the beautiful things that She has freely given us. Courage - Zoongide’ewin Perservere through hard times and stand up for what you believe in. When you have courage you will triumph over fear. You learn from everything you go through, big or small and the challenges in life only make you stronger. You are fit to fearlessly take care of your family because you have chosen to use what you have been through for good. Love - zaagi’idiwin Love is not just a feeling but an action. Love is the foundation of all these teachings. You can help others as much as you want but to give without having love you have not given at all. Inside us all is a loving heart and spirit. When you genuinely love it shines through. Remember to always love yourself because you cannot love another if you do not love yourself first. Inspired by: http://www.davidbouchard.com/mtw/sst1.pdf |