The Chickasaw did not live in villages. They
lived in small camps, scattered along rivers and waterway. They were
hunters and gatherers. Because the men were hunting, and the women
were gathering food, you might think the children had to work as well.
They did not. Small children were free to help or to roam as they
chose. Most girls chose to help. Most boys chose to roam.
Legend says ... Chickasaw women were never
worried about their young warriors. Even very small children were free
to roam about all day with a blowgun and a tiny bow and arrow. From
the time they were born, it was emphasized to Chickasaw children to
always be aware of every leaf, to see each as a unique being. So they
never got lost. They followed the leaves all the way home.
