Our November Theme: WISDOM
We practice the Seven Grandfather Teachings at SGR throughout the school year. Almost all First Nation people follow the principles of Love, Respect, Courage, Honesty, Wisdom, Humility, and Truth which apply to every culture. This month we are practicing Wisdom.
Each of the Seven Grandfather Teachings honor one of the basic virtues intrinsic to a full and healthy life. Each teaching is represented by an animal which offers a special gift and understanding of how we as people should live our lives on Mother Earth.
Humankind has not woven the web of life.
We are but one thread within it.
Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves.
All things are bound together.
All things connect.
--Chief Seattle, 1854
According to First Nations, Metis, and Inuit culture, the building of a community is entirely dependent on gifts given to each member of the community by the Great Spirit. These gifts must be utilized for the betterment of the community.
The animal representing wisdom is the beaver because it embodies that building. The beaver’s example of using his special gifts he has received, his sharp teeth for cutting trees and branches which he uses to build dams and lodges, expresses this teaching. If the beaver did not use his gifts to build, his teeth would grow and grow making it impossible for him to sustain himself and would ultimately lead to his demise. The beaver knows his gifts and uses them to the best of his abilities.
We shared our gifts this month by participating in Fill the Dome which is a student-led fundraiser. We raised over 1,600 items as a school to restock area food shelves in the Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo area.
Another way we gave back to the community was by participating in a local project called Letters of Joy where individuals, businesses and a couple schools wrote letters to residents in assisted living facilities. In total over 1,617 cards were sent to 32 facilities in the F/M and surrounding communities.
We have so much for which to be thankful. It is wise to share our gifts with others in our community. I’m so proud of all the ways students shared their knowledge, understanding and insight by giving back to those around them in this season of thanksgiving.
Looking ahead, the Grandfather Teaching for December is Humility. What does humility mean to you?