I was born in Nature's wide domain ! The trees were all that sheltered
my infant limbs, the blue heavens all that covered me. I am one
of Nature's children. I have always admired her. She shall be my
glory: her features, her robes, and the wreath about her brow, the
seasons, her stately oaks, and the evergreen - her hair, ringlets
of earth - all contribute to my enduring love of her.
And wherever I see her, emotions of pleasure roll in my breast,
and swell and burst like waves on the shores of the ocean, in prayer
and praise to Him who has placed me in her hand, It is thought great
to be born in palaces, surrounded with wealth - but to be born in
Nature's wide domain is greater still !
I would much more glory in this birthplace, with the broad canopy
of heaven above me, and the giant arms of the forest trees for my
shelter, than to be born in palaces of marble, studded with pillars
of gold ! Nature will be Nature still, while palaces shall decay
and fall in ruins.
Yes, Niagara will be Niagara a thousand years hence ! The rainbow,
a wreath over her brow, shall continue as long as the sun, and the
flowering of the river - while the work of art, however carefully
protected and preserved, shall fade and crumble into dust !
George Copway (Kahgegagahbowh) - Ojibwe
Among the Indians there have been
no written laws. Customs handed down from generation to generation
have been the only laws to guide them. Every one might act different
from what was considered right did he choose to do so, but such
acts would bring upon him the censure of the Nation.... This fear
of the Nation's censure acted as a mighty band, binding all in one
social, honorable compact.
George Copway (Kahgegagahbowh) - Ojibwe
Native American Legends A-B