Our Monthly Theme: RESPECT
We are focusing on learning more about respect this month.
The Native American ancestors chose the Buffalo to represent the teaching of respect. No animal was more important to the existence of Indigenous families than the buffalo. A single buffalo could provide food, shelter, clothing and utensils for daily living. Every part of the buffalo was used and very little was wasted.
First Nations people were true conservationists for they lived in a sustainable relationship with the buffalo. They believed themselves to be true caretakers of the great herds. Through this special relationship, the true spirit of Respect was understood.
The buffalo, through giving it’s life and sharing every part of it’s being, showed the deep respect it had for the people. This sustainable and mutual relationship with the buffalo resulted in a relationship that was a true expression of respect.
This spirit of respect was shown toward all of life because Native people saw the interconnectedness to all life. They saw very clearly their dependence on the land.
Therefore, the land and it’s resources were to be given absolute respect. When this respect was abused, the buffalo were hunted for fun. This is why we see no great buffalo herds in the wild any longer.
We can learn a lot from the way Native American families respected the buffalo.
~Anishinaabe Values and Teachings taken from the Moorhead Indian Education Program
Grandfather Teachings: 1-Courage 2-Wisdom 3-Humility 4-Honesty 5-Love 6-Respect