19 May Daily Practice Inspired By Martin Brokenleg
In European languages, to say to a person, ‘You are acting childish,’ would be an insult. However, in my native Lakota, the corresponding phrase would be translated as ‘You are acting like a sacred being.’ With such a respectful term as sacred being for childhood, it was not surprising that Native Americans exercised great care in nurturing the sacred little ones in our midst. Children were quite literally the purpose of life.
- Martin Brokenleg
Today’s Practice:
Take some time to talk with your children about how they are feeling about everything. They may also share something important that is going on in their life right now. All you need to do is ask questions to learn more, and summarize back what you hear. Each child in your family can have a turn to share. You can take a turn to share as well, making sure your children ask questions to learn more about your story.
Martin Brokenleg
Martin Brokenleg is a psychologist and author in the fields of trauma, resilience, and Native American studies. Brokenleg is known for the Circle of Courage, an influential model of positive youth development, a framework that posits that there are four universal needs and values that are essential for young people’s growth: belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity.