Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide.
TecumsehRead
I am a Shawnee. My forefathers were warriors. Their son is a warrior. From them, I take my only existence.
Interpretation
This quote highlights the importance of heritage and the warrior spirit in one's identity.
Tecumseh's quote reflects a deep connection to his ancestry and the qualities that define him. By recognizing himself as a Shawnee and a descendant of warriors, he emphasizes the strength, honor, and resilience inherited from his forefathers. This lineage is not just a part of his history; it shapes his very being and existence, inspiring pride and courage in his identity.
In practice
During a speech on cultural pride, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of one's history.
Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide.
Let us form one body, one heart, and defend to the last warrior our country, our homes, our liberty, and the graves of our fathers.
Since my residence at Tippecanoe, we have endeavored to level all distinctions, to destroy village chiefs, by whom all mischiefs are done. It is they who sell the land to the Americans.
When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself.
From my tribe I take nothing, I am the maker of my own fortune.
The Great Spirit made all things. He gave the white people a home beyond the great waters. He supplied these grounds with game, and gave them to his red children; and he gave them strength and courage to defend them.
I couldn't find anyone doing something about the astounding injustices women were experiencing, so I decided to do something myself. I cannot tell you how many people ridiculed my efforts.
It behooves us to accomplish what God requires of us, even when we are in the greatest despair respecting the results.
You get your freedom by letting your enemy know that you'll do anything to get it. Then you'll get it. It's the only way you'll get it.
Thus thought I, as by night I read Of the great army of the dead, The trenches cold and damp, The starved and frozen camp,-- The wounded from the battle-plain, In dreary hospitals of pain, The cheerless corridors, The cold and stony floors. Lo! in that house of misery A lady with a lamp I see Pass through the glimmering gloom And flit from room to room. And slow, as in a dream of bliss, The speechless sufferer turns to kiss Her shadow, as it falls Upon the darkening walls.
The ability and inclination to use physical strength is no indication of bravery or tenacity to life. The greatest cowards are often the greatest bullies. Nothing is cheaper and more common than physical bravery.
If we wish to free ourselves from enslavement, we must choose freedom and the responsibility this entails.
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