Principles of Four and Seven

A guide for all individuals and groups but especially for leaders and policy-makers

Introduction

The aim of this article is to outline some guiding principles and simple practices for bringing us into alignment with our surroundings, improving the outcomes of meetings, community projects or other group events.  By practicing these basic principles, we may create a place of common ground before any undertaking, increasing the chances of positive outcomes.

Get accustomed to talking with the land

One of the most valuable principles to consider before any group activity or meeting is that of co-dependence.  As humans, we rely on each other for support, so perhaps decision-making should always be mindful of the interrelationship principle.  This extends to our relatives in the animal, bird, insect, tree, fish and plant communities that may also need to be taken into consideration when a development project or undertaking could affect their lives.  It is surely advisable to seek permission from the land itself before any activity is planned.  The land will find a way of communicating its wishes.  Groups may benefit from holding an 'Earth Talk Circle' to discover what the land has to say.  

The four directions

There is a core understanding among native peoples that there exist four primary tones or colours assigned to the four cardinal directions which also correspond to the four main types of solar resonance, the four elements, and their guardians.  These four directions or colours could be said to represent all the peoples of the earth.  This 'four-ness' is therefore significant in building structure and support for any undertaking.  By honouring these four primary foci, we are more likely to be operating from a place of balance, equality and integrity, thereby creating strong foundations from which to proceed.

The practice

A good practice to adopt at the start of any group activity would be to align with the Great Spirit that dwells at the heart of all existences, and to the four directions, followed by taking a minute to connect with the heart of the earth. 

 Consider these easy steps:

• Take a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to become centred, feeling the earth beneath you, the sky above you, meeting within your heart.
• Visualise the light at the centre of the circle, feel the great love that holds all things and is at the centre of all things.
• Sit in a circle: this builds a sense of trust and equality - avoid seating plans that place officials at one end of the room.  Where possible, hold meetings outside.
• Be mindful of the four directions - it may be useful to bring a compass.
• Be mindful of the following seven principles, reading them out if appropriate.

The seven principles

These seven principles are fundamental for establishing right relationship to the earth and to each other.  They provide the foundations for right and peaceful living.  Each of the principles are interrelated and may be considered as forming the points of a seven-pointed star.

1. Truth:  Always seek the truth in all things.
2. Honesty:  Be honest with yourself and your world.
3. Respect:  Show respect for all life, for the elders, for neighbours and for the earth, listen with your heart.
4. Love:  The cornerstone to a happy and peaceful life, the glue that hold all things together.
5. Humility:  Remember to be thankful, find humility to show respect and gratitude, maintaining balance.
6. Wisdom:  Everyone has a special gift; true wisdom acknowledges this.  To build a peaceful world, draw on the wisdom of past, present and future generations.  
7. Courage:  It takes courage to do what is right; have courage; be generous.

Summary

These principles and practices may be used to create a valuable framework for living a life of balance, since they transcend any boundaries of religion or culture and should resonate with the hearts of all people.  Indigenous perspectives draw on the wisdom of past generations that may help us through these times, enabling us to transition toward a more peaceful, harmonious way of life.  These principles of four and seven may be brought into the teaching curriculums of any organisation, group or individual practice.  

Interrelatedness, as nature shows, is the fundamental truth that sets out the principles of equality and respect necessary for leasing this balanced approach to life.  Being respectful of diversity means that we may adopt a cooperative approach to problem-solving and maintaining healthy systems of organisation.  Circular seating helps provide a sense of equality and offers a practical approach for including all viewpoints to gain a balanced perspective.

I believe there is a need to encourage our leaders and policy-makers to adopt these principles, thereby restoring integrity to any decision-making.  Individuals or groups may benefit from holding up a mirror to see if these steps have been followed. 

Please download this poster to pin up on the notice board of your local community centre, meeting room or staff room:

poster 4&7.docx