The nomadic plains Indians were very dependent upon what life offered each day. Many days were bountiful, but many more were not. To survive an unpredictable world and without a written language, each successive generation had to orally pass down the wisdom of their experiences to the next generation. By its nature this oral tradition extended their family structure, calling on the strengths of individuals within the tribe. Insight from tribal elders prevented costly mistakes from reoccurring. The adults were required to defend and provide for both young and old. Training the young to become the next generation of providers was the responsibility of all tribal members, aunts, uncles, as well as their own parents. Collectively caring for one another the community reinforced bonds of family and belonging. The boy honing his skills under the tutelage of a more experienced hand embodies the dynamic of an extended family. Lending feelings of warmth that come from commitment and giving to something larger than one's self. The Lesson,