An Elder.

The Elder

An Elder is given the title and recognition as Elder by other Elders of his/her respective community or nation. They are selected based on their experience as mediators, their spiritual and traditional knowledge and their capacity to pass on these experiences to others.

One does not have to be a senior citizen to be an Elder.

The gifted individual is given the position of Elder by spiritual and human acceptance, and must commit to fulfill his/her responsibilities to ensure that traditional values, principles and other teachings are passed along, and to provide instruction to help individuals live in the right way.

In the performance of these activities, the Elder may be assisted by an Elder’s Helper.

During ceremonies, Elders may choose to smudge prior to the others in a group or they may often be offered a place of respect at the head of a line.

 When food is served, Elders should be served before others in attendance, this is a respect that they have earned.

Grandfather Elder.

Everyone should know, at least in every tribe that I have visited, that Grandfather is a name sometime used for Creator.

Grandfather is also used as a sign of esteem admiration to an elder that has satisfied the requirements as stated above.

Grandmother Elder.

In a Matriarch society one must walk very carefully and carry a few red pouches when attempting to call an elder Grandmother.

One needs to be familiar with the person and her people so as not to get dead ( just joking) women do not like to be reminded of age, so keep this in mind.