Richard Basil, Stuctwesemc

Grandfather's Story

The Moon was a very handsome man. He had a wife, Wala, and many children.

During the winter they camped in a different place every night. When they travelled, the Moon always went ahead to prepare, a camp.

On her back, Wala always carried her large birch bark buckets. In her hands she carried her birch bark snow shovel. She needed these to gather and melt snow for water.

One morning, Wala said to her husband, "Where are you going to make our camp tonight?" Wala asked this question several times, but the Moon never answered. At last the Moon said crossly, "Camp on my face!"

Wala took her husband seriously and jumped on his face. She stuck there. The Moon could not get her off. So the Moon's handsome face was marred. Today, he cannot shine very brightly.

Secwepemc Elders have always held an important role in society as they provide guidance on spiritual and community matters. The Elders were looked to as advisors about the laws of the land and nature.

The Elders called the land Tmicw because it provided the people a means of survival. They taught that everything from the land served a purpose and that if the people used or took something from the land that an offering of thanks was required. They also taught that everything came from the land and to respect everything that was a part of the land. Some people endlessly search for some meaning or destiny in life and fail to realize that all life's questions are simply answered once they connect to the Tmicw.

An important lesson passed on was to take only what was required to live each season, and in that way future generations' interests were protected.

The Elders had many roles in village life. They were leaders in ceremonies. For instance, an elder might be asked to sing a Welcome Song and pray during a gathering of visiting people. Elders were also the main teachers in the village. Elders were fast and efficient at many tasks so they taught skills such as sewing, tracking and hunting by example. Sometimes the elders taught their lessons through storytelling where they shared information about the rich language, culture, and history. In addition, the Elders were often the primary caregivers of their grandchildren and non-judgemental advisers to those that came for help.

Even though the lessons might seem harsh or old fashioned they were provided so one could benefit from an elder's knowledge and experience. Individual elders were looked to for certain qualities which people knew they possessed. Elders have the knowledge of many years of living and carry with them the history and stories of the past.

Click on the Resources Link to view profiles of Elders and community members who contributed to the Website.


Activity: Helping Others & Writing

Do something for an elder that shows you care. First design what you are going to do. Next get the material you need to complete your project. Finally deliver your project to the elder.

Another way to get to know your elders is by asking one of them to tell you their life story. Take notes as the elder is talking. Once you have finished taking with the elder write a story of their life. Give it to the elder when you are done.

Important Information to Remember:
  • The elders have always played an important role in spiritual and governing matters.
  • The elders had many roles; they were leaders in ceremonies, teachers, caregivers, and advisors.
  • Elders are gifted with the richness of living life; therefore they are important members in the community