Definition of elder difficult judgment

Page 6

EDITORIAL

Last week Windspeaker was criticized by someone who'd been the subject of an article in which he'd been labelled an elder. The reader indicated his embarrassment at being titled as such and gave numerous reasons as to why the name was undeserved. He had done nothing inspiring nor had he set an example to his peers. He went on in his letter to the editor to point out that an elder "must have achieved a goal or something" and be recognized for that by many different tribal elders.

An error had been made on the part of Windspeaker and an apology made, but the criticism has raised the question of what an elder is ? in today's terms. Are there standards which qualify someone to earn the title of "elder" or is this a term used entirely according to the eye of the beholder?

The reader who disputed being called an elder gave a definition of what he thinks the term means. IS it possible this is a description which stood in the 1800's? Does it still stand today? If an elderly Native person had lived a good life and never harmed anyone, but also had no opportunity to do something spectacular, are they undeserving of being called an elder?

At any rate, the word seems to be used widely in present times to denote an elderly Native person. Perhaps it is being used improperly. If the term "elder" denotes a spiritually advanced and humble person who is living and teaching the traditional religious ways almost forgotten, then the term is indeed being used too loosely. And Windspeaker is guilty of inappropriate use, as well.

In all of Canada there must be not more than 50 traditional, true elders who are actively teaching. In many cases these "keepers of the heritage" speak only their traditional language and only a fortunate few are able to receive their knowledge. It's tragic to realize that in all probability, we will no longer have these elders around to teach in another 10 to 15 years because they will have passed on . . . a devastating blow to the Native communities.

Some elders believe it is good that sacred ceremonies are being recorded using today's technological equipment, others feel it is dead wrong and will have no part of it. They maintain the powerful secret ceremonies and teachings are to be kept as such and feel a violation is being done if rituals are performed before a clicking camera or video filmer.

They have a point. They are wary that the ancient teachings may be exploited by being shown to those who have only a passing curiosity for the mystical and "occult." Also, respect for the holiness of this ancient wisdom seems to be reduced to a "carnival show" when cameras and "nosey" reporters are present.

But, what will happen to the old ways when all the elders are gone? It will be a great loss to those who so badly need their wisdom. The recording of the ceremonies and teachings can be done with respect and passed on only to those who are sincerely interested in following the traditional path. Technology could and should be married with ancient ways to preserve such an important aspect of Native lives from being forever lost.