The native American has been generally despised by his white conquerors for his poverty and simplicity. They forget, perhaps, that his religion forbade the accumulation of wealth and the enjoyment of luxury... Furthermore, it was the rule of his life to share the fruits of his skill and success with his less fortunate brothers. Thus he kept his spirit free from the clog of pride, cupidity, or envy, and carried out, as he believed, the divine decree-a matter profoundly important to him.
Interpretation
The quote highlights how Native Americans valued simplicity and generosity over material wealth, contrasting their values with those of their conquerors.
In this quote, Charles Alexander Eastman reflects on the values and beliefs of Native Americans, illustrating how they were often looked down upon by white settlers for their perceived poverty and lack of luxury. He emphasizes that their lifestyle was rooted in a deep religious conviction against the accumulation of wealth, advocating instead for sharing and support among people. This way of living allowed them to maintain freedom from negative traits such as pride and greed, aligning with what they believed to be divine principles that were significant to their existence.
In practice
This quote can be shared during a discussion about cultural values and the importance of generosity.
If you ask him: "What is silence?" he will answer, "It is the Great Mystery! The holy silence is His voice!" If you ask: "What are the fruits of silence?" he will say: "They are self-control, true courage or endurance, patience, dignity, and reverence. Silence is the cornerstone of character."
Not to be born surpasses thought and speech. The second best is to have seen the light and then go back quickly whence we came
Gentle reader, the Fountain of Youth is radioactive, and those who imbibe its poisonous heavy waters will suffer the hideous fate of decaying metal. Yet almost without exception, the wretched idiot inhabitants of our benighted planet would gulp down this radioactive excrement if it were offered.
Anti-democracy...is a virus that exists, and pro-democracy is the antibody to that virus, and I think we have to become vigilant, and we have to stay on top of the issues of democracy and freedom.
If this were a fantasy world, there would be ten of me and we would each be doing what we wanted to do.
Life is a long preparation for something that never happens.
The more people smoke herb, the more Babylon fall.
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