Strong Culture Builds Resilience
“Resilient communities don’t use drugs, resilient families don’t want them.”
Have you ever stopped to consider the power of culture in building resilience? Our story today comes from a little heard from, but remarkable source, an Indigenous elder from the Yolŋu community. The wisdom shared by the Elder can be summed up in one simple yet profound statement: “Strong culture builds resilience.” By fostering a culture of self-awareness, purpose, and personal responsibility, we can create resilient communities that not only resist the lure of drugs but also thrive in the face of adversity.
In a video titled “Strong Culture Builds Resilience,” this Yolŋu Indigenous Elder shares her insights on resilience, purpose, and the role of culture.
Understanding Humanity and Purpose
She begins by defining what it means to be human. To her, being human is not just about our biological form. It’s about having a purpose, a destiny that has been ordained for us by God.
“When I say it doesn’t only mean Aboriginal but it means a human being. God created you as its own being. And when he created you, he made you a universe and he gave you a purpose. There is a purpose God Destiny for you so you can become who you are and work for God.” Yolŋu Elder
This perspective transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to the universal human experience. We are all creations with a purpose, and it is our duty to discover and fulfill that purpose.
Building Resilience: A Personal Responsibility
The Yolŋu Elder goes on to explain the importance of self-realization and personal responsibility in becoming resilient.
“God has given that, God made that, and God made us into that. You build yourself first, you take responsibility first.”
In other words, resilience isn’t something that happens to us. It’s something we build within ourselves. It’s the product of knowing who we are, understanding our purpose, and taking responsibility for our actions.
Resilience: A Community Value
This simple yet profound wisdom resonates with the key idea shared by the Dalgarno Institute: “Resilient communities don’t use drugs, resilient families don’t want them.” It’s a clear message that resilience is more than just a personal trait. It’s a community value, and it’s built on a strong cultural foundation.
The Yolŋu Indigenous Elder’s words remind us that resilience doesn’t come from external factors; it comes from within. It’s about knowing who we are, understanding our purpose in life, and taking responsibility for our actions. Only then can we build communities that are resilient and free from the shackles of drug abuse.
