Shared Sacredness of Tradition: Wisdom

Nibwaakaawin (Wisdom) To live with vision and use the talents we have for good. Literally, a way of seeing life and the world through the eyes of our soul.

The beaver represents wisdom because he uses his natural gift by altering the environment for his family’s survival.The building of a community is entirely dependent on gifts given to each member by the creator and how these gifts are used. The Beaver's example of using his sharp teeth for cutting trees and branches to build his dams and lodges expresses this teaching. If he did not use his teeth, the teeth would continue to grow until they became useless, ultimately making it impossible for him to sustain himself. The same can be said for human beings. One's spirit will grow weak if it is not fulfilling its use. When used properly however, these gifts contribute to the development of a peaceful and healthy community

In regard to the Seven Grandfather Teachings, we say that to cherish Knowledge is to know Wisdom. Wisdom is acknowledging our unique gifts and talents given to us by the Creator and to use them in ways that are honourable and respectful for the Creator, for ourselves and for those around us.

King Solomon, famed for his wisdom, writes this, “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:6-7) and “A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a mocker does not respond to rebukes.” (Proverbs 13:1) 

We must allow ourselves to be humble, open to the Lord’s teaching, growing through instruction and right discernment in order to grow in Wisdom.

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A prayer for a desire to seek Wisdom and grow in Wisdom each day,

God of all creation, through reverence for You, may we see the deepest wisdom, and we pray that we may uphold sacred Traditions which open ourselves to you and show we have received and maintain the values in these teachings of our ancestors.

Grant us the strength and the courage to make the right choices in our lives and guide our thoughts by the gifts of Your Holy Spirit each day. Lord, continue to transform us in ways pleasing to you so we may grow in grace and in a knowledge of the Lord Jesus as we draw closer to you.

We pray for a discerning heart. An honest and true heart that seeks You first. A heart of understanding and a genuine desire for a deeper knowledge of You through your creation and the shared sacredness found in righteous Tradition.

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, pray for us! Servant of God Nicholas Black Elk, pray for us!