3 Truths About Native American Giving Culture

In almost every community, children are taught that ‘sharing is caring’ but the act of giving varies among various cultures. The values and traditions that Native Americans follow may vary from tribe to tribe, but the emotions around the act of giving are pretty consistent. The people of the Navajo community are built on communal values that lay more emphasis on the importance of giving as they believe that generosity is a way of life. Here are certain beliefs pertaining to giving that Native American culture follows.

Giving is not a sacrifice

As with most cultures, giving is seen as a sacrifice and sometimes results in feelings of loss or giving up something. This type of system that is perceived as isolating, distrusting and unbalanced does not exist in the Native American community. Native Americans believe that the act of giving brings people closer together and it is also considered as a loving commitment to the community. People do not give to gain leverage over others.

Taking is trusting

Native Americans often value Mother Earth. They will not take earth’s resources more than they need. They will also return back the favor by taking care of the earth and other living creatures. The same goes if one person is taking something from another. They believe in taking exactly what they need, and returning back the favor whenever they are able to.

Never ask for something you would never give

Asking is a vulnerable act for most Native Americans. It also acts as an opportunity to strengthen the connection of the community. People feel honored if someone is asking anything from them as it gives them a chance to establish a closer connect. However, you will also find that Native Americans do not ask anything that they cannot return back. They have a firm belief that asking, giving and taking is a continuous circle which if broken becomes unbalanced and unequal.

Native Americans aren’t materialistic and do not affix great importance to wealth and goods. However, gifting someone with all your heart, whatever it may be, is greatly appreciated. The Native Americans like the people from the Navajo community for this trait and appreciate their skills of art, which makes their creations to be known to people around the world. If you want to gift someone, then you can also look for Navajo purses, Navajo coffee mugs or a Navajo art coffee mug. Their traditional pieces of art are simply worth keeping.

Author: The author is a blogger and the article talks about 3 truths about Native American giving culture.