Grandfather Teaching: Courage

The Bear – Guardian of the Heart

Paw Print Design: Bear paw, bold claw marks in deep earth and forest green

In the quiet places of the forest, the Bear moves with purpose. It knows the cycles of the seasons, the lean months of winter, and the abundance of spring. It faces the long sleep without fear, trusting that it will rise again when the snow melts.

In the Sacred Grandfather Teachings, the Bear carries the lesson of Courage.

Courage is not the absence of fear. Fear is a natural shadow that walks with us all. True courage is to take a step forward even while that shadow lingers. It is to protect what you love, to speak when silence would be easier, to stand for what is right even when the world turns against you.

The Bear’s courage is born of responsibility — to its cubs, to its den, to the forest that feeds it. In the same way, our courage must be tied to a purpose greater than ourselves.

The Bear reminds us:

"Stand where you must, protect what you love, and face each season with open eyes."

This teaching invites us to meet our challenges not with recklessness, but with steady resolve. It teaches that the strength to endure comes from knowing who you are and why you stand.

Design Meaning: The bear paw print represents both power and protection. The sharp claw details speak to bravery in defense of loved ones, while the earthy and green tones connect the Bear to the living forest.

Cultural Note: This story honors the Sacred Seven Grandfather Teachings, shared and passed down through generations by many Indigenous Nations. This representation is offered with respect, humility, and acknowledgment of the deep cultural roots of this teaching.