Wùlelèndamò’ kàn - Respect

Included in the Teaching of Respect are tolerance, thoughtfulness, caring, equality, and freedom. Opposites are disrespect, intolerance, and prejudice. Our Elders have told us:   Respect the old, for in honoring them, you honor life and wisdom. Wimbendowa’ kàn/consideration of the afflicted and aged. Respect all life and your own will be sustained. Respect women, for in honoring women, you honor the gift of life and love. Respect promises, for by keeping your word, you will be true. Respect kindness, by sharing gifts you will be kind. We show respect when we have a reverence for all land and life. Everything is connected, there is no separation. All things are relatives, having a common thread, being the Creative Spirit which is in all things, and which gives existence to all things. What affects one part of creation ultimately affects all other things. We show respect when we are mindful and thoughtful of others, and show that we care for others. We show respect when we have tolerance for others, accepting others as they are and not seeking to change them to fit our expectations. In this way we are also showing unconditional love for others. If we are to change people we must do it by example and not by force. Respect the traditions, culture, and beliefs of others. We must respect Our Mother Earth, all land and all life. We must respect the possessions of others and not steal. We must respect the old for their wisdom, the children as our future, and women as the bearers of the future generations. We must also
respect others as equals and respect the freedom of others.

 

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