Page 29 - Beausoleil First Nation

Elders
We do not refer to Elders as senior citizens; the term Elder refers
to more than age. True Elders have lived past the middle stages
of life and have accepted the responsibility to always carry
themselves in a good way. They bring their experience, wisdom,
good hearts, and good spirit to people and issues. They are very
important to our community. We look to them when seeking
information and knowledge. Elders are the “wise ones” because Community Elders gather at the
they have gained wisdom by living life in a spiritual way and are community centre.
always prepared to help others. An Elder is someone who knows
traditional knowledge, history, and ceremonies. They live in a
manner that is often described as being traditional or simple,
and they practise the ceremonies.

Elders usually claim that they are not knowledgeable, but when
we ask them a question about something, they share a story.
We have to listen carefully to understand the points of their
stories. Elders say young people often don’t know how to listen
anymore. Elders are often asked to sit as a “Council of Elders”
who are listened to and who observe how the affairs of a
community or organization are being conducted. Elders are able
to scold without fear. They scold in a quiet way and are careful
not to hurt anyone’s feelings.
Sometimes we refer to a
younger person as being an
Elder, but if that person has
not lived past the middle
stages of life, then it might be
better to refer to that person
as being a traditional person
or knowledge keeper. In
Anishinaabe culture, a person
cannot call himself or herself
an Elder unless the community
says the person has earned
the right.

An Elder sings to his granddaughter.

Beausoleil First Nation 27

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