How Einstein taught me the value of the seven teachings.

Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value. - Albert Einstein

Ethics are a hard thing to learn, because it takes vision to see reward. It takes patience to see result. The truth is that success with out value is a forlorn apology for failure.

When we turn our back on this we lose something very precious, something so simple so small that it haunts our every step.

When success is gained through value it is an extension of a creation bearing no falsehood and sacrificing nothing. This is the greatest act of creation in our being, when life is a true reflection of our will.

"Nbwaa kaa win - To cherish knowledge is to know WISDOM. Symbolized by the beaver.

Zaa gid win - To know LOVE is to know peace. You must love yourself in order to love another. Symbolized by the eagle.

Mnaa dendi mowin - To honor all of the Creation is to have RESPECT. Symbolized by the buffalo

Aak wade’ ewin - BRAVERY is to face the foe with integrity. The bear symbolizes the moral courage to do the right thing.

Gwek waadi ziwin - HONESTY in facing a situation is to be brave. Symbolized by Sasquatch or Wilderness Man.

Dbaa dendi ziwin - HUMILITY is to think things through carefully and to know your place. Symbolized by the wolf.

Deb we win - TRUTH is to know all of these things. Symbolized by the turtle. "

(From a write up about The Birchbark House)

When you let go of death and life all that is left these teachings are all that are left.

True reward is all to often misunderstood. These are the virtues that help you build a life out of value, I have never truly realized their significance. Thankfully, I am am still a foolish young man. Knowing your place is one of the greatest gifts a man can receive.

If you do not know where your heart belongs how do you know who you are?