How Well Do You Follow Instructions?

Following instructions is part of growing from infancy to manhood. From the very first time you are able to understand things being said by your parents all the way up till the day you cross that great river to the spirit world you are continually receiving instructions.

Beginning at a very early age we are taught things like, “Don’t touch that, it’s hot! “Look both ways before crossing the street; or, “If you eat green apples you will get sick.

Yes we are constantly being told what to do. Most of the time these instructions are for our own good. As we grow toward manhood and leave home, find a job, and make new friends we learn why we have been taught certain guidelines. When teaching someone proper ways to do things is it not better to take one step at a time? Say you were attempting to cross a stream filled with alligators, would it not be safer to use stepping-stones taking small steps to get to the other side rather then to take one long step and take the chance of missing and ending up as ‘Gator Bait?

If you have the opportunity to teach another person how to do something would it not be safer and better for your student to take small steps at first?

Yes, we can all learn new things as we grow. Many of the things taught to us by our parents while we are still young stay with us for the rest of our lives.

Following instructions is not just for some but also for all who wish to accomplish the good things in life. By being able to follow instructions, we are able to learn and to teach. As Elders, we would want to teach others what is right and good and not just the fundamentals of the things taught.

Explain not only that these things should be practiced but also way these things bring happiness or a sense of accomplishment. So always accept instructions with your wellbeing in mind. Have a happy holiday season and may you be blessed.

Daniel Hawk With Seven Eyes Hoffman is a founding member of the Taylorville Black Horse Powwow, Inc,' a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable and educational organization. He has given presentations at schools in Central Illinois area on the history, culture and religious beliefs of the Native American people for over 27 years. Hawk and members of his group present dance demonstrations for children who along with their teachers are invited to dance. Hawk believes children are the future.