✨ We are Water Protectors [READ ALOUD] by Carole Lindstrom

Summary

In 'We Are Water Protectors,' Carol Lindstrom narrates a tale of environmental stewardship. A young protagonist, inspired by Nomus, learns the sacredness of water and its vital role in life. The community faces the 'black snake,' a metaphor for pollution, threatening their water supply. United by their songs and drums, they stand as protectors against this menace, fighting for the Earth's creatures and ecosystems, emphasizing their enduring spirit and the interconnectedness of all life.

Takeaways

• 🌿 'We Are Water Protectors' is a story that emphasizes the sacredness of water and the responsibility to protect it.
• 🐍 The 'black snake' symbolizes a threat, likely an oil pipeline or similar environmental hazard, that endangers the land and water.
• 🔥 The narrative speaks of the urgency to act against the 'black snake' to safeguard the community's water supply.
• 🎶 The importance of cultural practices like songs and drums is highlighted as a means of rallying and uniting the community.
• 🌎 The story underlines the interconnectedness of all living beings, including humans, animals, plants, and the environment.
• 💧 Water is personified as having its own spirit and memory, connecting the present generation with their ancestors.
• 👥 The protagonist feels a deep responsibility to protect the water, reflecting a stewardship role towards the Earth.
• 🌱 The narrative calls for courage and unity in the face of environmental challenges, emphasizing collective action.
• 😢 Emotional responses like tears are depicted, symbolizing the deep emotional connection and concern for the environment.
• 🌳 The story ends on a note of defiance, suggesting that the struggle against the 'black snake' is just beginning.

Q & A

What is the significance of water in the story?

Water is described as the first medicine and is considered sacred. It nourishes life, both in the mother's womb and on Earth, symbolizing the deep connection between people and nature.

Who is Nomus and what role do they play in the narrative?

Nomus is a figure of wisdom who teaches the narrator about the sacredness of water and its importance to their people. They emphasize that water has its own spirit and carries the memory of ancestors.

What is the 'black snake' referred to in the story?

The 'black snake' symbolizes a destructive force, likely an environmental threat such as a pipeline, that spoils water, poisons the land, and threatens the ecosystem.

How do the people react to the arrival of the black snake?

The people are determined to resist the black snake, gathering together to protect the water and land. They stand united with songs, drums, and the resolve to fight for the Earth and its creatures.

What message does the story convey about community and resistance?

The story highlights the importance of community in standing against destructive forces. It portrays the people's collective effort to protect the environment for future generations and for all living beings.

Why is the river’s rhythm important to the narrator and their people?

The river’s rhythm symbolizes the connection between the narrator's people and the land. It runs through their veins, linking them to their ancestors and to the Earth, reinforcing the idea that water is vital to their identity and survival.

What is the significance of the line 'We are still here'?

This line underscores the resilience and enduring presence of the narrator's people despite challenges. It reflects their continued fight to protect the environment and uphold their cultural traditions.

What does the narrator mean by 'we are stewards of the earth'?

The narrator believes that it is their responsibility to protect the Earth and its resources, acting as caretakers for the land, water, and all living beings that depend on them.

How does the story depict the relationship between humans and nature?

The story depicts a deep, interconnected relationship where humans, animals, plants, and the Earth are all related. The people’s role is to protect the natural world, as their survival and spiritual well-being depend on it.

What is the main theme of 'We Are Water Protectors'?

The main theme is environmental protection, focusing on the need to defend water and land from harmful forces like the 'black snake.' It also emphasizes community action, resilience, and the sacredness of the natural world.