Native American Wisdom
WISDOM ::
The quality or state of being wise; knowledge of what is true or right coupled with just judgment as to action; sagacity, discernment, or insight.
Every citizen of the planet Earth can gain value from the wisdom of the Native Americans, from their belief that the Earth is a spiritual presence that must be honored, not mastered.
Modern “civilized” man is facing the inevitable results of following a philosophy of dominance, rather than one of harmony. We have gotten out of balance with our Earth and the very future of our planet and our society depends on our capacity to restore that balance.
We are crying out for help, for the truths of nature, for words of wisdom. The wisdom exists in the words and insights of the Native American people. But these people speak quietly. Their words are simple and their voices soft. We have not heard them because we have not taken the time to listen. Perhaps now is the time for us to open our ears and our hearts to the words they have to share.
Native Path’s goal is to increase awareness of and respect for the wisdom of the Native American people. We pray that their traditions will be remembered, grow and prosper.
“I believe much trouble and blood would be saved if we opened our hearts more. I will tell you in my way how the Indian sees things. The white man has more words to tell you how they look to him, but it does not require many words to speak the truth.”
Chief Joseph, Nez Perce
“Civilization has been thrust upon me … and it has not added one whit to my love for truth, honesty, and generosity …”
Chief Luther Standing Bear, Ogalala Sioux
“All things are connected. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the children of the earth.”
Chief Seattle, Suqwamish
“Look at me — I am poor and naked, but I am the chief of the nation. We do not want riches, but we do want to train our children right. Riches would do us no good. We could not take them with us to the other world. We do not want riches. We want peace and love.”
Red Cloud, Sioux
“No person among us desires any other reward for performing a brave and worthy action, but the consciousness of having served his nation.”
Thayendanegea, Mohawk
