Traditional Principles
Nation Development
Interconnectedness and interdependence have been cited as a profound aspect of Aboriginal beliefs and philosophy. When we examine nation development – nation building – we must focus on the interconnection of all development. The individuals, the families, the communities add up to the concept of a nation but we must be careful not to see this as a linear concept. Nations interact with each other causing dynamic interaction.
The national viewpoint of a people encompasses societal beliefs, myths, and laws. The teachings tell us that development of this kind must be inundated with traditional values such as respect and humility to balance the power and control of leadership. Once again, the process of looking into the mirror to clearly see the nation, the leadership, the social beliefs is stressed. Justice is a critical consideration, opportunity for development is essential, and agreements must be honoured. Everyone who makes up a nation must have the right to these basics and be able to challenge the social paradigm. When nation building is accomplished through the traditional teachings and values, the possibility of moving toward positive actualization may be realized.
Vision
Vision has great medicine – great power. Vision sees beyond the ordinary, and balances the seen and the unseen. To be visionary in development requires:
- Examining individual, family, and community for the invisible patterns that make up the current way of life;
- Understanding where these patterns came from and examining how these patterns became part of daily life;
- Opening up all possibilities. Envisioning these possibilities and accepting many things as mirrors reflecting to us what is possible. The mirrors come in the shape of spiritual teachings, elders, friends, and nature;
- Acquiring the knowledge, skills, and values needed to put into practice these possibilities. Determination along with patience is necessary to achieve lasting development.