Walking the Path of the Ancestors: The Wisdom of the Seven Grandfather Teachings

In the sacred heartbeat of Algonquin tradition lives a wisdom so deep, it echoes through generations—The Seven Grandfather Teachings. These sacred gifts were handed down from the Creator, not just to be learned—but to be lived. They are more than teachings. They are a way of life. The Native Way.

Each teaching is carried by a spirit animal, chosen by the Creator to deliver a message for how we are meant to walk this Earth—together, with honor, love, and balance.

Wisdom – The Beaver

The first grandfather sent the Beaver to teach us Wisdom. Not just the kind found in books or spoken stories, but the kind that comes from listening, observing, and applying what we’ve learned to help others thrive. Wisdom calls us to build, like the Beaver, with intention—for the good of the whole lodge, not just ourselves.

Love – The Eagle

With wings that stretch to the heavens, the Eagle teaches Love. Love that sees all people as relatives. Love that soars above judgment. Love that watches over even in silence. When we love purely and freely, we heal not just ourselves, but all creation.

Respect – The Buffalo

The Buffalo, heavy with purpose and power, carries the teaching of Respect. It reminds us to walk softly on the Earth, to honor the four-legged, the winged, the waters, and each other. With respect, we create harmony. Without it, we destroy connection.

Courage – The Bear

Bear stands for Courage. To face the unknown. To stand firm in your truth, even when the winds of doubt howl loud. Courage is not the absence of fear—it is choosing to keep walking anyway. Like the Bear, we must protect what is sacred, including our own hearts.

Honesty – Sabe (Bigfoot)

The fifth teaching comes with a smile and a warning from Sabe, our Bigfoot. He teaches Honesty. Not just telling the truth, but being the truth. Walking with integrity when no one is watching. Sabe reminds us: if you’re not being real, you’re not being you.

Humility – The Wolf

The Wolf, with his strong yet quiet presence, brings the gift of Humility. He travels in a pack, never seeking the spotlight, always serving the whole. He reminds us we are not greater than the trees, the stars, or each other. We are all just part of the circle.

Truth – The Turtle

And finally, the Turtle carries Truth—steady, wise, and ancient. He tells us to live our truth, no matter how long the path or slow the journey. Truth grounds us. Truth connects us. Truth frees us.

These Teachings Are More Than Words

• They are the map for a meaningful life.

• They remind us that everything is connected.

• They carry relevance across all times and all peoples.

• They are the heartbeat of the Algonquin way.

• And they are a sacred gift meant for all of humanity.

When we live by these Seven Grandfather Teachings, we return to balance—with ourselves, with our communities, and with the natural world. This is the way of my people. This is the way of the ancestors. And if your spirit is listening, it may just be your way too.

Walk with me, and let’s walk in beauty.

— Chief Little Eagle