If my tribal family can cry out to one another then there is no shame for all of us – as the best of God’s creation – to cry out to God. Indigenous peoples have developed intricate rituals and ceremonies to honour our totems. For example, our totem gives us our identity. It’s an innate thing that we get from our forefathers in birth. This is very important to many Indigenous people because before one’s passing from this world, he or she will perform his/her totem. Our respect for creation goes beyond mere symbolism; it extends into sustainable practices that ensure our survival. Indigenous communities have traditionally practiced responsible hunting and fishing techniques that allow for species preservation while meeting their own needs. Overall, an Indigenous perspective recognises that humans are part of a larger web of interconnectedness with all living beings on Earth. By acknowledging and respecting the creatures of the land, air and water, Indigenous cultures strive to maintain a harmonious balance between humans and nature. So, as you read this study can I ask that we who are the best of God’s creation be respectful to where we live and know that we are indeed blessed and that we should be a blessing to others less fortunate than us and be a blessing to the land, sea and air and “to all creatures big and small”. ‘To forget one’s Ancestors is to be a tree without roots’ Chinese proverb A meaningful wisdom when applied to any topic related to our sacred totems, language or stories of creation. 61
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