This is a list of Basic Indigenous Ethics or Code of Conduct compiled from various sources. The majority of these bullet points on manners and state of mind are from the book The Sacred Tree and random internet posts I’ve come across. You will see these to be good, practical, and universal teachings. These Indigenous Etiquette bullet pints shed a little more light on the Circular Mentality teaching. Also, when reading this code of conduct (and all teachings on this site) please reflect on how the practice of these can affect The FourCircles.
Be tolerant of those who are lost on their path. Who show ignorance, or conceit, and anger, remember, jealousy and greed stem from a lost soul. Pray that all will find right guidance.
Respect all things that are placed upon this earth, whether it be people, animals, land, or elements.
Honor other people’s thoughts, wishes and words. Never interrupt another or mock or rudely mimic them. Allow each person the right to personal expression.
Never speak of others in a bad way.
The negative energy that you put out into the universe will return to you.
No person should be made to feel “put down” by you; avoid hurting other hearts as you would avoid a deadly poison.
Bad thoughts cause illness of the mind, body and spirit. Practice optimism.
Make conscious decisions as to who you will be and how you will react. Be responsible for your own actions.
Respect others religious beliefs. Do not force your beliefs on others.
Speak in a soft voice, especially when you are in the presence of elders, strangers or others to whom special respect is due.
Listen with courtesy to what others say, even if you feel that what they are saying is worthless. Listen with your heart.
To serve others, to be of some use to family, community, nation or the world is one of the main purposes for which human beings have been created. Do not fill yourself with your own affairs and forget your most important task. True happiness comes only to those who dedicate their lives to the service of others.
Observe moderation and balance in all things.
Know those things that lead to your well-being, and those things that lead to your destruction.
Listen to and follow the guidance given to your heart. Expect guidance to come in many forms; in prayer, in dreams, meditation, in times of quiet solitude, and in the words and deeds of wise elders and friends.
Touch nothing that belongs to someone else (especially sacred objects) without permission, or an understanding between you.
Respect the privacy of every person. Never intrude on a person’s quiet moments or personal space.
Never walk between or interrupt people that are conversing