I know Great Spirit is looking down upon me from above, and will hear what I say.
It is not necessary for eagles to be crows.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself rather than conforming to others' expectations.
Sitting Bull's quote, 'It is not necessary for eagles to be crows,' highlights the value of individuality and authenticity. It suggests that one should embrace their unique qualities and strengths without feeling pressured to fit into societal norms or imitate others. Just as eagles soar high and embody their strength and freedom, individuals should not diminish their potential in order to blend in with the crowd. This quote serves as a reminder to celebrate one's distinctiveness and potential.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership workshop to encourage individuals to embrace their unique leadership styles.
More from Sitting Bull
All quotes βI want to tell you that if the Great Spirit had chosen anyone to be the chief of this country, it is myself.
Is it wrong for me to love my own? Is it wicked for me because my skin is red? Because I am Sioux? Because I was born where my father lived? Because I would die for my people and my country?
When I was a boy, the Sioux owned the world. The sun rose and set on their land; they sent ten thousand men to battle. Where are the warriors today? Who slew them? Where are our lands? Who owns them?
Therefore, I do not wish to consider any proposition to cede any portion of our tribal holdings to the Great Father.
I wish it to be remembered that I was the last man of my tribe to surrender my rifle.
Similar quotes
Experience is the only real teacher and if you keep a diary you get three bites at educating yourself - when it happens, when you write it down, and when you reread it and realise you were wrong. Making mistakes is part of life. The only things I would feel ashamed of would be if I had said things I hadn't believed in order to get on. Some politicians do do that.
If you had felt yourself sufficient, it would have been a proof that you were not.
We come nearest to the great when we are great in humility.
I'm not pretending to be ingenuous; I know what I'm doing.
Words are how people think. When you misuse words, you diminish your ability to think clearly and truthfully.
When we are unable to find tranquility within ourselves, it is useless to seek it elsewhere.