I will consider that we come from nature and we will return to nature.
Headlines fill with predictions about the rise of artificial intelligence. Could a different kind of AI – ‘Ancestral Intelligence’ – offer insights equal to the depth of the climate and biodiversity crises we now face?
The Great Dish
In Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabek, Métis, and Mohawk cultures, no matter what the language, one common metaphor was the Great Dish, representing the sharing of nature’s abundance of foods and medicines, free for all to benefit from, provided proper respect is shown and nothing is wasted. The spoon is rounded to prevent injury when taking sustenance from the Great Dish.
Under the Great Dish Treaty people agreed to common rules:
- Only take what you need.
- Do not waste what it offers.
- Share what is in the Dish with everyone.
- Keep the Dish clean.
Visit the Muskoka Discovery Centre in Gravenhurst or the MDC online exhibit Confluence of Cultures – Misko Aki
Ancestral Wisdom
We increasingly recognize Ancestral Knowledge for its relevance in addressing modern
challenges, including climate change and social justice.
“We must restore climate, soils, forests, and ecosystems. Shift from extraction to regeneration. Conscious action is needed to return to balance.” – Mindahi Bastida
The first Outrage and Optimism podcast of 2026 features a discussion with Mindahi Bastida, from the Otomí-Toltec peoples of Mexico, and Atawévi Akôyi Oussou Lio, Prince of the Tolinou people of Benin (Africa), two Indigenous leaders from different continents and traditions. Together, they explore a relationship with the living world grounded in belonging rather than dominance, continuity rather than short-termism, and reciprocity rather than extraction.
The podcast hosts then reflect on what it means to carry this wisdom into the year ahead. If the challenges before us are not only technical and political, but also cultural and spiritual, how might that reshape the way we act, decide, and lead in 2026 and beyond?
Listen to Beginning the Year With Ancestral Wisdom – Outrage+Optimism podcast
Learn More:
Indigenous Wisdom for Our Time – Mindahi Bastida
The forest is life: Restoring the health of people and place in Benin – Rooted Magazine
Indigenous Peoples – Climate Action Muskoka
Previous Challenges:
Nature Nurtures – Climate Action Muskoka
Preserve Biodiversity – Nurture ‘Everyday Awe’