Respect for all Living Things

Having respect for the Creator, Mother Earth, elders, family and community,
teaches one to respect all living things. This respect extends from the earth
itself to animals, plants and all people. American Indians value nature. All
parts of creation are seen as related and all have a special purpose in the
order of things. All living things depend on each other for survival. Adults
make an offering before taking animals or plant materials and take only what
is needed. Children are also taught to take care of all living beings and to
learn lessons for behavior from the world around them.