The video 'One Human Family' by Jay Bowen from the Upper Skagit Tribe presents a profound narrative on interconnectedness, wisdom, and cultural values. Here's a summary:
Historical Anecdote: Jay Bowen begins with a story about Coronado's encounter with the Hopi elders in North America. The elders, expecting their long-separated brothers to return, greeted Coronado and his men with open hands, symbolizing a homecoming. The Hopi believed that all people are part of one family, destined to reunite and share their experiences.
Philosophy of Listening: The Upper Skagit Tribe, like many Native American cultures, emphasizes the importance of listening, not just with ears but with the soul. This form of listening is about being open, calm, and non-judgmental, allowing for deeper understanding.
Leaving Prejudices Behind: Jay Bowen describes a tribal custom where individuals are expected to leave their issues and prejudices at the door before entering a gathering. This practice ensures that everyone comes with an open heart and mind, ready to listen and learn.
Value of Silence and Elders: Reflecting on his youth, Jay Bowen realizes the importance of listening to the elders. He humorously recounts his desire to speak up as an elder, only to realize that he had nothing to say for the right reasons. This moment taught him the value of listening over speaking.
Recognizing and Using Gifts:The tribal community places a strong emphasis on recognizing individual gifts and using them to serve others. Jay Bowen shares how from a young age, he was taught about his responsibilities and the importance of serving others, a principle epitomized by the story of King Solomon choosing wisdom over wealth.
Impact of Actions on Others: Jay Bowen writes 'Morning Musings' where he ends with the reminder that we are our siblings' keepers. He stresses that our actions, whether selfish or generous, have a direct impact on others.
Universal Family and Indigenous Roots: Jay Bowen concludes with a powerful message about the interconnectedness of all people. He argues that everyone is indigenous to the Earth and emphasizes the importance of recognizing our shared humanity and responsibility towards each other.
Overall, the video 'One Human Family' offers a thought-provoking perspective on the values of listening, wisdom, community responsibility, and the interconnectedness of all people.
Questions for further reflection and discussion
Deep Listening and Understanding: Jay Bowen emphasizes the importance of listening with the soul, which involves being open, calm, and non-judgmental. Reflect on a situation where you practiced this kind of deep listening. How did it affect your understanding of the person or situation? Do you think our society values this form of listening, and how can we encourage more people to embrace it?
The Role of Elders and Wisdom: The video highlights the value of silence and listening to the wisdom of elders. How does your own culture or community regard the wisdom of elders? Share a personal experience where an elder's advice or perspective significantly impacted your life or thinking.
Interconnectedness and Responsibility: Jay Bowen concludes with the concept that we are all part of a universal family and are indigenous to the Earth. How does this perspective change the way you view your responsibilities towards others and the planet? In what ways can we foster a sense of global kinship in our daily lives and communities, recognizing our shared humanity and the impact of our actions on others?
Final Prayer
Divine Creator, who weaves the tapestry of humanity in infinite colors and patterns,
We come before You with open hearts, seeking the grace to listen deeply – not just with our ears, but with our souls. Help us to embrace the wisdom that comes from quiet understanding, and the patience to hear what is unspoken.
Bless us with the humility to learn from our elders, those who carry the lanterns of experience and knowledge. May we cherish their words and honor their journeys, understanding that in their reflections, we find mirrors of our own lives.
Guide us to recognize and cherish the gifts You have bestowed upon each of us. Let us use these gifts not for personal glory, but in service to our global family, remembering always that we are interconnected in Your magnificent creation.
In our daily actions, remind us of our responsibility towards one another. Help us to act with kindness and compassion, understanding that our smallest deeds ripple across the waters of humanity.
Instill in us a profound sense of kinship with all living beings. Remind us that we are all indigenous to Your Earth, sharing a common home under Your watchful eyes. May this realization foster a spirit of unity, respect, and love among us.
In Your boundless wisdom, teach us the ways of peace and understanding. Lead us on paths of reconciliation and mutual respect, that we may celebrate the diversity of Your creation while embracing the oneness of our human family.
