The Seven Grandfather Teachings—Wisdom, Love, Respect, Bravery, Honesty, Humility, and Truth—are anchors, guiding me toward a life that resonates with my heart and soul. Reflecting on these teachings, one at a time, feels like a meaningful way to grow and improve. Today, my reflection is on Bravery.
In the Plains Cree tradition, Bravery is more than courage in the face of fear—it is the strength to live with integrity and stand firm in our values, even when it’s difficult. It asks us to overcome adversity not just for ourselves but to protect and uplift those around us. Bravery reminds us that challenges are a natural part of life, and how we face them shapes not only our own paths but the strength of our communities. This teaching calls on us to honor our responsibilities, speak truth even when it’s hard, and approach every struggle with resilience and determination. It also invites us to lean on the spirits for guidance and courage.
I remember an Elder sharing a story about Bravery. They would sit quietly, their voice steady as they said:
_”There was once a young woman who lived on the edge of the forest. She was wise beyond her years, but shy, keeping mostly to herself. One night, a great storm came—thunder rolling across the sky, winds shaking the trees, and rain pouring endlessly. The river near her home began to rise, threatening to flood the village.
The young woman was afraid. She wanted to stay in the safety of her home. But then she remembered the teachings of her Elders, who had always said, ‘Bravery is not the absence of fear—it is moving forward, even with fear in your heart.’
She gathered her strength, took her canoe, and paddled into the river. The storm roared around her, but she didn’t turn back. She guided her canoe to where it was needed most, rescuing those who were stranded, ferrying them to higher ground. As the night passed, she faced the storm over and over, never stopping until everyone was safe.
When the skies cleared, the Elders praised her bravery. They reminded her that courage is born not from recklessness, but from love—for our people, for our land, for what we hold dear.”_
Reflecting on this teaching, I feel its quiet encouragement to step forward in moments of fear or uncertainty, trusting that bravery is not about being fearless but about finding strength and purpose in the face of challenge.
I wonder what it would look like to live with that kind of courage every day, no matter the size of the storm. Perhaps it’s about asking myself where I am needed most and moving toward that place with resolve, leaning on the spirits for strength and trusting that they walk beside me. Bravery, I think, is also about faith—faith in our teachings, faith in the people who support us, and faith in our own capacity to rise.
It’s a reminder that even in our moments of doubt, we are capable of so much more than we realize. I hope to carry this teaching with me, not just in big moments, but in the small ones too, where bravery often feels the hardest to find.
These reflections on Plains Cree teachings are part of my personal journey to gain clarity and understanding. While these teachings are central to my identity, I recognize there is always more to learn. I encourage you to consult an Elder for accurate guidance, as my interpretations may not always be correct.
Who am I? 
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