Understanding Our Place In Interdependence

My Thoughts From Reading About Sweetgrass

I often think about our place in the world.

It can feel like we are so disconnected from everything.

People are disconnected from the problems of the world.

Disconnected from each other.

Even disconnected from ourselves.

There is this belief I have heard many times.

Us against the world.

It’s a mindset that can feel… lonely.

But is it even true?

I’ve been reading this book called, “Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants”.

It provides a fascinating Indigenous perspective on human’s place in the world.

In one section of the book, there is a discussion on Sweetgrass.

It is a special plant to many Native Americans use in prayers, ceremonies, and medicine.

There is a belief from the Elders.

“If we use a plant respectfully it will stay with us and flourish. If we ignore it, it will go away. If you don’t give it respect it will leave us.”