Most people who know me very well at all, know that I am a student of Native American Spirituality. I spend a lot of time each week studying and researching the history of the indigenous peoples who inhabited North America long before the other cultures came here. By reading about the people and the way that they embraced and lived life, I find a better understanding of my own spiritual connection. Every once in a while I come across something that gives me one of those "Aha" moments. It happened this week when I found a connection between a Native American and the Boy Scouts of America.
I'm not sure why the information surprised me like it did. When I think about the activities that my brothers did in the Scouts, I can see the connection now. But I didn't know the history until I found an article written by emanderso about Charles Eastman a Native American who helped form the Boys Scouts of America. Eastman was of the Sioux Nation who graduated from Dartmouth and then Boston University with a medical degree and returned to the Pine Ridge Reservation to help his people. Emanderso tells us that Charles Eastman was present at the massacre of Wounded Knee and helped to take care of the wounded. Sometime around 1910 Eastman helped Ernest Thompson Seton create the institution of the Boy Scouts here in America and based it on the ways of the Native Americans.
What I found so fascinating was that Charles Eastman quietly used his education to help his people. He defended them against corrupt Indian Agencies and even lobbied in Washington D.C. His helping start the Boy Scouts was, in a way, bringing recognition to the old way of life. When I read the Boy Scout Law included in the article, I could see many of the teachings included that any young boy would have been taught from his tribe. In his quiet way, Eastman preserved a little of the culture.
What touched my heart was a quote from Charles Eastman. Here is an excerpt: "The true Indian sets no price upon either his property or his labor. His generosity is limited only by his strength and ability. He regards it as an honor to be selected for difficult or dangerous service and would think it shameful to ask for any reward…" I feel honored to have met this incredible man through Emanderso's article.
Visit Charles Eastman
Image Credit: Eagle Court of Honor Post Card by boyscouts
I'm delighted to bring you Tidbit Tuesdays here on the Squidoo Lens Review! Looking forward to reviewing bits of history, books, and so much more as the weeks progress.
What an interesting story, Bev. Kind of brilliant incorporating Indian ways into the Boy Scouts, although he probably had no idea how big Boy Scouts would get. Another example of someone using their gifts to help others.
I too have learned something new here, I never knew of this influence. Although it does make sense that those skills of the Native Americans would become skills that were valuable in the eyes of the Boy Scout movement. It is good to know these skills were shared and passed on in this way.
Great review, Bev!! It totally makes sense that the Boy Scouts would be influenced by Native American skills in life and survival. Such a treat to learn here about the great Mr. Charles Eastman. I absolutely love that quotation.
What an inspirational lens and individual! I am so glad you reviewed it, Bev. As always, you wrote a beautiful review.