Fables, Legends, and Myths

The elders gather the children together in a tent, to pass down the teachings of the Ojibwe culture; through fables, legends, myths, songs and dance, to the sound of a beating drum we listen. Of moral stepping stones and spiritual beliefs, through fables, legends, myths, songs and dance; we learn of the seven grandfather's who dwell above, of animals in nature who have great spirit. In fables, humility is represented by the mighty wolf, for the wolf's very life is to be part of the pack; and the ultimate shame is to be outcast, alone, to know humility is to know who you are. In legends, honesty is represented by the raven, for the raven accepts himself completely; and knows how to use his gifts in order to thrive, to walk life in integrity is to know honesty. In myths, respect is represented by the buffalo, yes, to live your life in peace and total harmony; to give of yourself in order that the people survive, to honor your creation is to know respect. In songs, bravery is represented by the bear, the mother bear has the greatest strength; and courage to protect and feed her young, to face life with courage is to now bravery. The drums, speak of wisdom represented by the beaver, the beaver uses his gifts for his survival; and alters his environment to sustain his existence, to cherish knowledge is to know wisdom. In dance, truth is represented by the turtle, here on earth since the beginning of all time; he lives his life slowly but with a destination in mind, and knows the importance of the journey. In fables, legends, myths, dance and songs we learn, of the eagle who flies the highest to the creator; who sees all, the eagle connects all the teachings, to earn an eagle feather is the highest honor. "Life is circular and the heart is the center and we are the heart." ___________________ February 22, 2017 Verse/Fables, Legends, and Myths Copyright Protected, ID 879326 For the contest, Fable sponsor, Nayda Ivette Negron Second Place