I know Great Spirit is looking down upon me from above, and will hear what I say.
Sitting BullRead
If I agree to dispose of any part of our land to the white people I would feel guilty of taking food away from our children's mouths, and I do not wish to be that mean.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses the moral dilemma of prioritizing one's own community's needs over external pressures for land disposal.
Sitting Bull's statement reflects the deep connection between the land and the sustenance of his people. He feels a profound sense of responsibility to protect his community's resources, emphasizing the importance of land as a source of life and cultural identity. Accepting to sell or give away parts of their land would mean betraying the trust and future of his children, showcasing a paternal instinct to safeguard their well-being and inheritance.
Themes
LandResponsibilityCommunityChildrenSustenanceHeritage
In practice
Example use cases
During a community meeting discussing land use, this quote can emphasize the importance of considering future generations.
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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