They are the keepers of our traditions, values, language and history. We must show respect to them at all times. Elders are our guides to our future. They are leaders in our community, role models for our children, and play a very important part in their development. They speak with honor and with a great deal of pride.
Elders are our teachers.
They teach us to be proud and help us to preserve our language. Their expertise is of vital importance to us. They teach us to respect Mother Earth, nature, and to be in harmony with both. They teach us of the herbs and teas that cure certain ills. We must also be aware of their upbringing and have respect for that.