I know Great Spirit is looking down upon me from above, and will hear what I say.
Sitting BullRead
Each man is good in the sight of the Great Spirit. It is not necessary for eagles to be crows. Now we are poor but we are free. No white man controls our footsteps. If we must die, we die defending our rights.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the dignity and inherent goodness of every individual while highlighting the importance of freedom and the courage to defend one's rights.
Sitting Bull's quote reflects a deep belief in the intrinsic value of every person as recognized by a higher power, the Great Spirit. It suggests that one’s worth is not determined by societal expectations or comparisons, such as eagles and crows. Despite the hardships faced, the quote underscores a commitment to freedom and the resilience to fight for one’s rights, encapsulating the spirit of defiance against oppression and the nobility of defending personal and communal values.
Themes
FreedomCourageRightsDignitySpiritualityDefiance
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on civil rights, to inspire activism and resilience.
More from Sitting Bull
All quotes →I want to tell you that if the Great Spirit had chosen anyone to be the chief of this country, it is myself.
Sitting BullRead
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?
Sitting BullRead
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?
Sitting BullRead
Therefore, I do not wish to consider any proposition to cede any portion of our tribal holdings to the Great Father.
Sitting BullRead
I wish it to be remembered that I was the last man of my tribe to surrender my rifle.
Sitting BullRead
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