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. |