Native Knowings: Wisdom Keys for One and All

by Steven McFadden

As of May 2023 this book is now available in a print edition.

This original compilation--a small treasure--offers a concise and contemporary compendium of some key North American (Turtle Island) wisdom teachings to help support people through this era of transition.

"I ask you to listen,
not just with your minds.
I ask you to listen with your hearts,
because that's the only way
you can receive what it is,
what we are giving.
These are the teachings of our hearts."
- Frank Decontie, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg

What do some of the venerable, deeply rooted wisdom teachings of the Americas offer in our era of transition?

This Soul*Sparks small treasure offers an array of thoughtful messages, a compilation of keys that everyone has opportunities to turn. We'd be wise to understand and then to weave their enduring insights into the fabric of what we are creating for ourselves, our children, and our children’s children

The words of contemporary elders, in particular, sound a note of urgency.

84 pages, Paperback

First published January 27, 2010

About the author

My main website and blog is Chiron Communications, as linked above. Here are other points of connection:

My Deep Agroecology blog:
https://deepagroecology.org/

My Amazon Author page:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...

Bluesky:
https://bsky.app/profile/chiron-commu...

Threads:
https://www.threads.com/@steven.mcfad...

Linked In:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-mc...

Reviews

[Heena Rathore Rathore-Pardeshi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Native Knowings: Wisdom Keys for One and All by Steven McFadden is a profound and soul-stirring journey into the heart of North American indigenous wisdom. This concise book, though just 84 pages, is a treasure trove of timeless teachings that are more relevant today than ever. As I delved into its pages, I found myself deeply moved by the words of wisdom that have been passed down through generations.

McFadden's writing is both eloquent and accessible, making the profound teachings of the Native American elders resonate with a contemporary audience. The book masterfully weaves together teachings from various tribes, offering a rich tapestry of wisdom that speaks to the heart as well as the mind. The quotations and teachings from elders like Frank Decontie are particularly impactful, urging the reader to listen not just with their minds, but with their hearts. This approach brings a deeper, more intuitive understanding of the messages conveyed.

One of the most compelling aspects of Native Knowings is its relevance to our current era of transition and uncertainty. The book highlights how these ancient teachings can guide us in creating a more harmonious and sustainable future. It's a call to integrate these insights into our daily lives, for the sake of ourselves and future generations. The sense of urgency in the words of contemporary elders adds a poignant note, underscoring the importance of heeding these teachings now.

In conclusion, Native Knowings: Wisdom Keys for One and All is a must-read for anyone seeking wisdom, guidance, or a deeper connection to the Earth and its history. McFadden has created a powerful compilation that not only educates but also inspires. It's a book that I will undoubtedly return to, as its messages are timeless and its wisdom, inexhaustible.

[Dcw · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars I enjoyed reading this again as I read the original published in 2013. The words are still very meaningful but it seems misleading to recognize this as a “new” book. Perhaps it has a new format or publishing company but I believe it’s basically the same as the 2013 version.

[Moriah]

I found this small book to be a great reference to hearing from all kinds of voices across many tribes and nations. I loved hearing the wisdom and knowledge that may otherwise be lost. I appreciated the pictures throughout of nature and animals that added to the importance and urgency of regarding our planet with respect. A great reference of our elder‘s past and one that I will refer to again.

[Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a free copy of "Native Knowings" via LibraryThings. This book was inspirational, motivating, profound and a little sad. I was very impressed with some of the says. Very much worth the time to read.