Stories and Teachings from the Earth, part 24: Now Is Not the Time to Be Silent

Iskigamizige-giizis (Boiling Sap Moon) - April 14, 2025

Silence holds great power. There is great wisdom in remaining silent. Our ancestors often advised their children, "Bizaanabin Bizindan," which means "Sit quietly and listen!" Bizindamowin, learning from listening, nisidotamowin, understanding through listening, and gikinawaabiwin, learning by observation, were fundamental aspects of anishinaabe-gikinoo'amaadiwin, our educational system. Additionally, silence was a crucial tool for preventing internal conflict. Our ancestors knew that in emotionally charged situations, responding with silence could prevent escalation and give everyone a chance to reflect. It acts as a buffer against the intensity of the moment, allowing cooler heads to prevail.

However, remaining silent is not always the best response.

While creating silence can be beneficial, there are instances when it can be detrimental. At times, we choose silence due to fear or cowardice. These emotions can drive us with powerful, devastating consequences. Now is not the time to remain silent. We must make crucial decisions about our future and that of future generations. Now is the time to rise up! We must voice our thoughts and reignite our warrior spirit, because if we stay silent and let the fire die out, humanity may lose its true direction for generations.

Therefore, rather than letting our campfire flames dwindle, we should add another log. As the fire blazes brightly, we should place a branch of giizhik (grandmother cedar) on the log to create crackles and sparks. Then we must proclaim, "no matter how hard he tries, the orange wiindigoo will never succeed in stealing our light. The spirits of our ancestors protect us and will always stand with us."

Nahaaw, mii sa iw.