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 Truth.
In the Plains Cree tradition, Truth is not merely about facts or accuracy—it is a sacred practice of living authentically and with purpose. Truth calls us to reflect deeply on who we are, what we value, and how we navigate the world. It challenges us to discern what is real and enduring amidst noise and confusion.
This teaching reminds us that Truth is not always simple. It requires courage to seek clarity, especially in times when lies and distortions seem louder than wisdom. Truth is about aligning our lives with the values and principles that bring us closer to balance—not just within ourselves, but within our communities, our relationships, and Creation.
In the Plains Cree worldview, Truth is inseparable from accountability. It asks us to honor the commitments we make to ourselves and others, to hold space for honest conversations, and to share our stories with integrity. It also calls us to be mindful of the truths others carry—the perspectives and experiences that shape their lives—and to approach those truths with respect and care.
I remember an Elder sharing a story about Truth, their words full of quiet strength:
_”There was a wise bear who lived near the river. The bear had spent many seasons walking the land, watching the cycles of nature, and learning from the spirits. The other animals often came to the bear for guidance, trusting its wisdom.
One day, a young eagle approached the bear. ‘I want to understand the meaning of Truth,’ the eagle said. The bear nodded and led the eagle to the river.
‘Look into the water,’ the bear said. ‘What do you see?’
The eagle gazed at its reflection. ‘I see myself,’ it replied.
‘That is Truth,’ said the bear. ‘It begins with seeing yourself clearly—your strengths, your flaws, your spirit. But it does not end there. Truth is also about seeing beyond yourself—understanding the land, the spirits, and the teachings that connect us all.’
The eagle listened and reflected. Over time, it learned to balance its vision—to see both itself and the world with clarity. It carried this wisdom in its flight, sharing the meaning of Truth wherever it traveled.”_
Reflecting on this teaching, I find myself asking what it means to see my own reflection clearly—not just as others see me, but as I truly am. Truth asks me to honor the journey I’ve walked, to accept the lessons I’ve learned, and to move forward with authenticity. It also asks me to see beyond myself, to listen to the stories of others, and to embrace the interconnectedness that shapes our lives.
Perhaps Truth is about finding balance—not perfection, but a harmony between what we carry within, what we hear from others, and what we share with the world around us. It’s about creating a space for honesty that doesn’t demand certainty, but rather openness—a willingness to seek understanding, even when the answers feel difficult or unclear.
Truth reminds me to navigate the delicate balance between hearing truth and untruth in what others share. It challenges me to sort truth from untruth not by reacting, but by reflecting—by asking questions, seeking clarity, and remaining connected to my own sense of what feels right and true.
There is so much more to the word Truth than I realized before I started reflecting on this teaching. It feels vast, layered, and deeply personal, reaching into every corner of how I live and engage with the world. I have so much to learn, and lots more to work into my day-to-day way of living. Truth feels like an evolving journey—one that requires patience, reflection, and grace.
I feel this teaching asking me to step into the complexities of truth with courage—to face what is uncomfortable, to hold space for growth, and to trust in the process of discovery. It reminds me that truth isn’t static; it evolves with us, shaped by the choices we make and the relationships we nurture. To live in truth is not simply to know, but to question, to learn, and to connect deeply with ourselves and with the world around us.
As I reflect, I hope to carry this teaching with me—not just in the moments that are clear and easy, but in those that require patience, grace, and humility. Truth feels like an invitation to walk through life with integrity, letting authenticity guide each step of the journey, while learning to honor the sacred stories others share with me and the truths they carry.
The beauty of Truth is that it doesn’t demand perfection. Instead, it invites me to keep learning, growing, and striving to align my spirit with the wisdom it offers. Perhaps, most of all, Truth is about trust—trusting in the teachings, trusting in the process, and trusting that the journey toward understanding will reveal the path I am meant to walk.
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? 
I would love to hear from you!