Manaaji ' idiwin / Respect
The teaching of Manaaji’ idiwin (Respect) is represented by Maskhodè-Bizhiki (Buffalo), the one who gives all of themselves so that others can survive and continue on their journey. Understanding respect means understanding balance and how to attain balance within our lifecycle. Through respect, we learn that every piece of ourselves is valuable and honourable; Mashkodé-Bizhiki reminds us that we should not be wasteful, but mindful. Respect also means honouring those who have walked before you, honouring those who walk with you, and honouring those who will walk after you. Chi-Miigwetch.
The Land We Cannot Give
A short story about the land and the importance of what the land provides for us as Anishinaabe peoples. The land is sacred and has agency, something that non-Indigenous settlers can learn by better understanding the beauty and grace which the land provides for us within Turtle Island.
Ojibway Proverbs
- Teachings from those that have come before us and guide our paths with their experiences. By being gifted these teachings, we are respectful to those who have gone through their own experiences to offer guidance that we can all learn and grow from.
Animoosh Amik Abeedimoowishon
- A short story from Anishinaabe storyteller Xavier Sutherland, which recounts the journey of a woman who has a dog companion to which she is disrespectful. It teaches us that respect is earned and should not be expected or demanded; this short story is a reminder that we need to respect our companions, whether they are animals, humans, or spirits!A short story from Anishinaabe storyteller Xavier Sutherland, which entails the journey of a woman who has a companion and is disrespectful to that companion, which is a dog. Respect is earned and should not be expected or demanded, and this short story is a reminder that we need to respect our companion’s, whether they are animals, human, or spirit.
The Gift of the Stars
A short story about Sparrow Hawk, a young Anishinaabe man who cared for his grandmother. Flowers that fall as shooting stars are a gift of medicine from Kitchi Manitou, healing the ailments that we face as we grow elderly and helping us to continue our well-being as we move through life’s journey.