“Always remember you are a person who belongs to something greater—do things that make your people proud.”
– Inspired by Joe Coyhis, Stockbridge-Munsee
We all come from different backgrounds that have shaped our beliefs and actions, some of which may have contributed to the divisions and mistrust we experience. Whether we face the world as Native Americans, recovering addicts, or simply as human beings, our choices and decisions reflect on the larger community we belong to. The accountability to honor our people and each other lies in conducting ourselves in a sacred and unified way. It often isn’t easy, but the Spirit World is there to assist us, and we have principles written in our hearts.
Trusting people is a risk, especially when past betrayals still haunt us. But in our journey to recovery and spiritual awakening, trust becomes a necessary leap of faith. It’s critical to remember that while people are not perfect, including ourselves, our collective well-being depends on trusting those around us. Our lives, our collective unity, and our ability to reach others depend on it.
Old prejudices and judgments have no place in our path to recovery and spiritual ascendancy. Our initial discomfort with diverse viewpoints should gradually give way to acceptance and appreciation. We learn that life becomes richer when we embrace multiple perspectives. Unity demands that we put ‘we’ before ‘me.’ Our differences, once seen as barriers, become assets that only add texture to our shared experience.
We are not alone on this journey. The Creator, or the Higher Power as some may name it, will help us develop into a strong people if we just learn to depend upon this divine assistance and each other. Unity is not just a word but a lived experience, one that urges us to let go of old misguided beliefs and embrace the new. By honoring our individual and collective paths, we cultivate a mindset of goodwill, fostering an environment where we can all thrive.
Just for today, let us honor ourselves and each other by trusting in the goodwill of our community. Put into practice the principles that bind us together, letting go of judgments and embracing the shared purpose that unites us all.
Start each day committed to making not only yourself but also your entire community proud. We walk this path together, hand in hand, trusting in the power of our shared humanity.