[00:09] For thousands of years, indigenous people have learned about the Earth's changing environment through careful observation of animals, as well as of the stars, sun and moon.
[00:19] The planting and harvesting of crops, hunting, fishing, and rituals were timed to celestial movements and changing seasons.
[00:27] Through this intimate connection with the Earth, native people came to understand that humans are not separate from nature. That we are all a part of the natural environment that sustains us.
[00:38] Albert White Hat, Sr.
'I talk to the wind as a relative. I talk to the sun as a relative. The moon. And you try to work with them in a respectful way so that you take what you need but you don't damage it...'
[00:51] '...Whatever I take from nature, I make a return in some way so that they will survive, just as I will survive.'
[00:58] By showing reverence for the environment, we ensure our continuing existence.
[01:03] Dennis Bercier, Turtle Mountain Community College
'When tribal elders made decisions, it wasn't based on what's going to happen this spring, but what's going to happen seven generations ahead...'
[01:12] '...Anything that we do, children should be our first thought. In 20 years, what my decision today, my son, my daughter, is going to have to live with whatever I do...'
[01:24] '...Start thinking about tomorrow in a different way. How you'd want your grandchild to live.'
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