Seven Teachings - Living a Good Life
Belmead Staff will continue our Character Education Program, centered around the Seven Teachings. We have chosen this framework because it not only embodies the character and values we aspire for our students, but also deeply connects with our commitment to fostering awareness and appreciation of First Nation, Métis and Inuit cultures. These teachings seamlessly integrate with curricular connections in both Physical Education and Wellness and English Language Arts. Throughout the year, students will engage in various projects and activities to uncover each teaching, with the ultimate hope that they make meaningful connections that empower them to live as contributing and connected citizens.
Many Indigenous groups and communities have adopted the 7 guiding principles, in one form or another, as a moral stepping stone and cultural foundation. Each community has adapted the teachings to suit their community values. Despite where the teachings may have originated, they share the same concepts of abiding by a moral respect for all living things.
The following are the Seven Teachings:
- Truth - The Turtle carries truth. Truth is symbolic of law and principle. Since the beginning of time, the turtle has been chosen to be the bearer of truth and the basic truth of the laws of nature have not changed.
- Respect - Respect is the gift from the Buffalo. In all life, respect is the first and foremost. Respect oneself and respect will be bestowed.
- Courage - The Bear carries courage. We seek the strength and courage to face our greatest enemy - oneself. The bear will give us the understanding to seek resolutions.
- Love - Love is the gift from the Eagle. Love is a force that is undeniable. With love, all things are possible. It is everyone's right to have and experience it.
- Humility - The wolf carries humility. Central to the wolf is the family pack. To ensure survival, the pack must be as one. In one's life, much the same as the wolf, we need to understand humility.
- Honesty - Honesty is carried by the Sabe (Sasquatch). It is from within and not to be confused with truth (law). In reality, there is no "ifs" or "buts", there can only be honesty in one is to survive.
- Wisdom - The beaver carries wisdom. Wisdom is not to be confused with knowledge. Wisdom is the gained experience and knowledge is to know the difference and accept responsibility and accountability.
We encourage all our families to support us in this endeavor by bringing in these teachings into your home.
