Multi-generational trauma afflicts segments of our population. It may fall under post-traumatic stress disorder and manifest itself in a variety of physical, emotional, spiritual, or mental disorders. At times we give too much time to the trauma instead of the treatment. A great quote that I saw recently on Indigenous People’s Day from the Lakota Nation was: “Our ancestors gave us these generational traumas, yet they also gave us generational strengths.”

Let us celebrate the strengths and break the chains. Place all our brokenness at the foot of the cross and live fully alive in mind, body, and spirit all for the glory of God. Seek the one who specializes in brokenness. Indeed, transparency, accountability, restitution, and reconciliation must be a priority and met with humility, love, and forgiveness. Thus, the chains are broken, and we celebrate with Psalm 85:10: When kindness and truth meet, justice and peace shall kiss.

Yes, indeed, the strength of the Lakota culture is based on the love of the Creator and to respect and honor of all life. The Creator gave them the 12 Lakota Virtues with Love (Cantognake) as the foundational virtue as well as the code of ethics. The whole universe exists because of love. The ultimate love is the spiritual joy that is responsible for life. All people desire to love and to be loved. It is in our DNA. Lead with Love!