https://jesspiper.substack.com/p/the-rural-whisperer
My American Literature curriculum started with Indigenous stories.
One of these stories told about the way one tribal society went into battle — older folks in front of the warriors. This made little sense to me the first time I read it. I wondered why grandmothers and grandfathers were in front of the young men while heading into battle.
And then I thought about it more. The young men were the sons and grandsons and nephews of the older people. Of course the older folks were in front.
I will stand in front of my children and grandchildren. I will go first. I want to put my body in front of theirs. I want to protect them and my community. I know they often can’t speak out because of their jobs, but I can. My retired friends can.