What I was taught by My Elders… the Code of Ethics to Build our Foundations Upon!
Over the years, the following words have stayed with me. I will be the first to admit it is not an easy path to walk, but like you all…
I am human too. So it is good to remind yourself often of the important things, the things we need to do, the way we need to walk. If we expect others to be and do better then we must help to guide them through example, through understanding, through the unconditional.
For we hold the power within each of us, the power to Change the World.
So with that thought…check egos at the door as we walk the code together.
Rise with the sun to pray. Pray alone. Pray often. The Great Spirit will listen, if
you only speak
Be tolerant of those who are lost on their path. Ignorance, conceit, anger,
jealousy – and greed stem from a lost soul. Pray that they will find
guidance.
Search for yourself, by yourself. Do not allow others to make your path
for you. It is your road, and yours alone. Others may walk it with you, but no
one can walk it for you.
Treat the guests in your home with much consideration. Serve them the best
food, give them the best bed and treat them with respect and
honor
Do not take what is not yours whether from a person, a community, the
wilderness or from a culture. It was not earned nor given. It is not
yours.
Respect all things that are placed upon this earth – whether it be
people or plant.
Honor other people’s thoughts, wishes and words. Never interrupt another or
mock or rudely mimic them. Allow each person the right to personal
expression.
Never speak of others in a bad way. The negative energy that you put out into
the universe will multiply when it returns to you.
All persons make mistakes. And all mistakes can be forgiven.
Bad thoughts cause illness of the mind, body and spirit. Practice
optimism.
Nature is not FOR us, it is a PART of us. They are part of your worldly
family.
Children are the seeds of our future. Plant love in their hearts and
water them with wisdom and life’s lessons. When they are grown, give them space to
grow.
Avoid hurting the hearts of others. The poison of your pain will return
to you.
Be truthful at all times. Honesty is the test of ones will within this
universe.
Keep yourself balanced. Your Mental self, Spiritual self, Emotional self, and
Physical self – all need to be strong, pure and healthy. Work out the
body to strengthen the mind. Grow rich in spirit to cure emotional
ails.
Make conscious decisions as to who you will be and how you will react. Be
responsible for your own actions.
Respect the privacy and personal space of others. Do not touch the
personal property of others – especially sacred and religious objects. This is
forbidden.
Be true to yourself first. You cannot nurture and help others if you cannot
nurture and help yourself first.
Respect others religious beliefs. Do not force your belief on
others.
Share your good fortune with others.
So keep that list close, remind yourselves each day…and always remember you are not alone for we
all walk the same way, one footstep at a time.
Mitakuye O`yasin,
bear Medicinewalker
“Old Memories” performed by Young Spirit and is available on “Save Me a Lead” at our friends Canyon Records and http://www.canyonrecords.com/shop/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=CR-6511
I am Dedicated to Educating and sharing culture with the World. It is not enough merely to teach the ways of our Elders. We must honor those traditions by sharing and educating the World. Inspiring others …Inspiring our Youth.
Through the Music… the Arts…the stories…
Mig`wetch,
~ bear Medicinewalker
