Boozhoo! (Hello!) Mish here from mishunderstood at your service for Tuesday’s Poetics.

Today I would like to draw some inspiration from Native American culture, specifically ‘The Seven Grandfather Teachings”. During my career, I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to work on a local reservation where preserving and maintaining cultural traditions such as these were so very important. Many of you are familiar with the history and profound impact of residential schools in the U.S. and Canada. After such a great loss of indigenous identity, it has taken time and healing for a revival of culture and language. Introducing Ojibway words and traditions to infants and toddlers in a child care center, was an honour and joy for me.

So what are the “The Seven Grandfather Teachings”?

They are a set of Anishinaabe guiding principals for living a good life in harmony with nature and others…all of creation. These ancient teachings have been passed down for generations through stories and ceremonies. Many Native American organizations have adopted these sacred laws as a foundation. Because they are the basis for a worldview rooted in respecting each other and the natural world, these values are often represented by a specific animal.

TRUTH (DEBWEWIN) – The turtle carries the teachings of life on his back. Slow and meticulous. Understand the importance of the journey. Be true to yourself. Speak your truth.

HUMILITY (DBAADENDIZIWIN) – The wolf lives life for his pack. Selfless, not selfish or arrogant. Praises others. Respects his place. Find balance within yourself and all living things.

HONESTY (GWEKWAADZIWIN) – The Sabe knows himself. Accept who you are. Walk tall like Kitchi-Sabe. Be honest with yourself, true to your spirit. Honesty is also represented by the raven.

LOVE – (ZAAGIDWIN) The eagle has strength to carry all teachings. Closest to the Creator. Has the sight to see all the ways of being from great distances. Loving parents that protect, teach and guide. Love must be unconditional. Eagle feather is the highest honour.

RESPECT (MINAADENDIMOWIN)- The buffalo respects the balance and needs of others. We have sustained ourselves through the buffalo – clothing, food, shelter. Share what you do not need. Place others before yourself.

COURAGE (AAKWA’ODE’EWIN) – The mother bear faces her fears to protect her young. Lives a balanced life with rest, survival and play. Do what is right, even when unpleasant.

WISDOM (NIBWAAKAAWIN)- The beaver uses his natural gift wisely for survival. Large teeth and the knowledge to build. Use your inherent gifts wisely. Listen with clarity. Accept your limitations. Cherish knowledge.

Source:

SEVEN SACRED TEACHINGS

Some additional links to learn more:

www.7generations.org

www.nhbp-nsn.gov

The Seven Grandfather Teachings are interconnected. To live a balanced life, tradition states that they must be used simultaneously as they are dependent on each other. For example, using courage/bravery without wisdom can be disastrous. Together these values act as a chain, strengthening each other to bring harmony to personal lives and community. I think they are a solid foundation for us all.

Your mission is to write a poem influenced by The Seven Grandfather Teachings in any way that you would like to approach the theme. You may choose to focus on ONE or embody them all. Suggestions: Consider the way one relies on another. Personify the animal or the virtue to bring us a message. A haiku for each could be another approach but of course, any form is fine.

Here’s how to join in:

• Write a poem of any style in response to the prompt. Post it to your blog.
• Click on Mr. Linky and add the direct URL and your name.
• Add a link to dVerse so that others can find us.
• Read and comment on the work of others.
• Pop into the pub to comment or say hello! We are friendly folk.