Traditional Principles

The fundamental principles of many teachings have been the foundation of Aboriginal spirituality for many years, and are deemed to be gifts of wisdom from the Creator. As Elders discuss the social, economic, political, and spiritual problems that are currently facing Métis people, they advise that we are from two worlds and should make the best of ‘both worlds’. They recognize that young families need an education to provide for their children, and to live harmonious lives. They emphasize that the old teachings and spiritual lessons are a better foundation for Métis to ‘walk in both worlds’.

Wholeness
The Seen and the Unseen
Duality
Change
Choice
Development
Individual Development
Family Development
Community Development
Nation Development
Vision

Wholeness

All things in the universe are interdependent and everything within life is connected and necessary. The elements – fire, water, air, earth – are all life giving. The seasons move from one to another as necessary parts of the whole. The stars, planets, and all aspects of universal bodies make up the whole of which we are all part. One is not more important than others.

If we underst and the principle of wholeness we will develop the ability to ‘listen’ to our entire being. With the help of the Creator and Mother Earth, we may come to experience the centered, peaceful feeling of being whole, being at one with ourselves, the environment, the universe.

The Seen and the Unseen

The physical world around us helps our conscious mind become aware of the seen. The unseen, the spiritual world, is constantly with us both in our conscious and unconscious state. Each of these worlds has laws, which govern them. If we violate the laws of one it impacts on the other. Again, the principle of wholeness is applicable, as together these two worlds create a ‘whole reality’ of which human beings must be mindful.

Duality

The dualistic nature of the spiritual and physical realities is an important component of Aboriginal society. The rejuvenation of Mother Earth from the warmth of the sun and rain showers begins new life and sustains life in nature. As exemplified, natural phenomenon provides positive and life affirming moments, but nature also creates grave catastrophe and disaster. All aspects of the universe including humans share this dualism.

Respect, humility, sharing, and patience are some of the qualities that we strive to develop. While these qualities are reinforced in ceremonies, legends, stories, and Elders’ advice, we acknowledge our human weakness. Developing our positive potential – an effort to balance the internal inconsistency becomes part of our task and accepting conflict and suffering is an essential part of being. When we do this, we help others without crippling involvement and we influence life.