WEBVTT

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These are the words that were given

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by a knowledge keeper who has since passed on.

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Written by: Rene Tenasco Ashkàbewis.

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Council member, 1993, Kitigàn Zìbì Anishinàbeg.

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The Otter

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It is said when the Great Spirit created the earth,

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he called a meeting with all the spirits.

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The Great Spirit discussed his intention to put human beings on

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the earth and they would play an important role in his creation.

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He asked the spirits how they wanted to help the people.

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Each spirit came forward and counselled with the Great Spirit

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on the ways they could and would help the people.

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Among these was the guardian spirit of the Otter.

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He went before the Great Spirit and said,

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“Because of my character and nature,

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I will help the people to work together in your creation.

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When they want to live in harmony with themselves

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and your creation, I will educate and instruct the people

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in teachings to protect their family and group.

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When they need me I will show the people the direction to unity.

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I will serve this purpose.”

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The Great Spirit approved of the Otter`s request and

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chose the Otter to be the guardian of unity for the Anishinàbeg.