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In the Native American ways, traditional knowledge is passed on through story and song, through words spoken, not words written. Stop and think about this - western tradition tells us to write things down, to go to books for our knowledge, and yet when we turn to comfort, to food for our souls, where do we turn? We turn to the wisdom that has been passed down through generations in story and song. We remember what our Grandmothers and Grandfathers, and our Mothers and Fathers, have told us. We find solace here, we find harmony here, we find our way back to our centers here.
However the oral tradition takes place - through story, through song, through the use of parables, it is presented in the same way each time. Perhaps it is the "sameness" that takes us to where we need to go, that gives us the cleansing that we need, that allows us to move forward. All things are to be respected, all things have their place. We are taught to respect all people and all things - and that when we ask for advise, to repsect the person that is taking the time to share his/her knowledge.
When wisdom has come to us, it is time to give thanks. To give thanks to our ancestors, to the person bringing us the guidance, and to All Of Our Relations that will help us put this wisdom into use in our lives.
There is more to the oral tradition. There is the vibration of the words, the "tone" of the telling. Perhaps it is the fact that we take the time to ask, and we take the time to listen. This starts a new cycle of thought and healing within us. What stories have your Grandmothers and Grandfathers brought to you? How have they helped you heal? This is your personal oral tradition - honor it and give thanks.
Thank you for visiting my Shamanism pages. May your day be Blessed.
Mitakuye Oyasin - For All Of My Relations.
Bonnie Cehovet
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