Written by Joy SpearChief-Morris

Follow Jeremy Thompson on Instagram @jeremy74thompson

Jeremy Thompson is a professional lacrosse player from the Onondaga Nation, member of the hawk clan, in New York state. Thompson has been playing lacrosse since he was a young child with his three brothers and now plays professionally with all of them. He currently plays in the National Lacrosse League for Georgia Swarm Lacrosse.

“Lacrosse has been that pinnacle point for me, as far as finding balance and finding a safe place in my life,” Thomson says in his session.

“It’s really become something that’s been a part of me spiritually, right from the beginning of my life since I’ve been born, and it will be for the rest of my life until I pass on to the next world.”

For the “Seventh Generation: Indigenous Wellness Series” Thompson is leading a session on the basics of the game of lacrosse based on the seven sacred teaching of “truth.”

From the sacred teachings, truth is carried by the turtle. “Truth is symbolic of law and principle. Since the beginning of time the turtle has not changed. The turtle has been chosen to be the bearer of truth and the basic truth of the laws of nature have not changed.”

“Essentially, we’re talking about our well-being,” Thompson says. “What it means to me is delving into the individual self and well-being and talking about honouring yourself with truth and living who you are and who you’re going to become and who you’re destined to be.”

Thompson says it’s important to embody the seven sacred teachings in order to strive for harmony within oneself in a healthy way. “What that means to me is really coming forth with the best vibe and energy that you can,” he says.

“Being the best version of yourself through community involvement at the youth age level, and your peer age level and working with the Elders in your community.”

Follow Jeremy Thompson on Instagram @jeremy74thompson