I know Great Spirit is looking down upon me from above, and will hear what I say.
Sitting BullRead
I wish it to be remembered that I was the last man of my tribe to surrender my rifle.
Interpretation
This quote signifies steadfastness and the unwillingness to give up one's beliefs or identity.
Sitting Bull's quote reflects a deep sense of pride and courage in maintaining one's heritage and identity, even in the face of extreme adversity. The act of surrendering a rifle symbolizes giving up one's power, tribe, and way of life, and by declaring himself the last to do so, he asserts his unwavering commitment to his people and their struggles.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about perseverance and resilience during challenging times.
I know Great Spirit is looking down upon me from above, and will hear what I say.
I want to tell you that if the Great Spirit had chosen anyone to be the chief of this country, it is myself.
Is it wrong for me to love my own? Is it wicked for me because my skin is red? Because I am Sioux? Because I was born where my father lived? Because I would die for my people and my country?
When I was a boy, the Sioux owned the world. The sun rose and set on their land; they sent ten thousand men to battle. Where are the warriors today? Who slew them? Where are our lands? Who owns them?
Therefore, I do not wish to consider any proposition to cede any portion of our tribal holdings to the Great Father.
God made me an Indian, but not a reservation Indian.
Action cures fear. Indecision, postponement, on the other hand, fertilize fear.
I play for high stakes and given an audience - there is no act too daring or too noble.
Women are constantly being taught how to defend themselves against attack from men. I would like to shift the perception. I want to say that that responsibility should no longer rest on the shoulders of women alone.
Moral courage is more a rare commodity than bravery in a battle or great intelligence.
God has always given me the strength to say what is right.
Men do not fight for flag or country, for the Marine Corps or glory or any other abstraction. They fight for one another. And if you came through this ordeal, you would age with dignity.
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