Living Reciprocity with Grandmother Earth

What does it mean to live in a relationship of reciprocity with the Earth? 

In this episode of Wisdom Keepers, scholar and Elder Dr. Henrietta Mann shares a Cheyenne creation story in which a small waterbird and an ancient turtle help bring the Earth into being. Through this story, she explores teachings of reciprocity, compassion, responsibility, and the enduring relationship between people and Grandmother Earth. 

In this episode, you’ll hear about: 

-A Cheyenne creation story about the origins of Earth 

-The roles of water, animals, and other living beings 

-Reciprocity as a relationship between people and the natural world

-Compassion and responsibility 

-The instruction to love and care for Grandmother Earth 

About the Wisdom Keeper 

Dr. Henrietta Mann is a Cheyenne scholar and Elder whose work centers Indigenous knowledge, education, culture, and the relationships between people and the natural world. 

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About the Music   

Stories can be shared in all kinds of ways, including through song. In theWisdom Keepers series, you’ll notice the enchanting vocal and flute melodies from ⁠⁠⁠Bear Fox⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Mignon Geli⁠⁠⁠, inspired by the language, traditions, and stories of the Mohawk Nation. These songs reflect the messages, spirit and wisdom passed down from their ancestors and through today’s generations.   

Acknowledgement: Wisdom Keepers highlights the essential role of Indigenous and community leadership in conservation. The series was co-produced by Annabelle Le Jeune and ⁠⁠Raine Media,⁠⁠ with additional production support provided by Eric Noyes and Ximena Marquez Abbona. We extend our gratitude to the Elders and their support networks for their thoughtful review and contributions throughout the production process.  

Photo credit: ©Dr. Henrietta Mann