The Old Ways are a traditional system of beliefs that guide the Cheyenne way of life. In these teachings
there were many paths one could follow and each had an important place.Traditionally the Cheyenne people lived a spiritual
way of life. Our faith was not just something we do one day a week or in church. Spiritual beliefs goveren every aspect of
a person's life from the time they get up in the morning until they close their eyes again at night. The family is the core
of a person's life. Unlike modern society, grandparents and other elders were treasured members of the family and looked upon
with great respect and affection.
Anyone who had read The Mystery of Ghost Lake can quickly tell you that Joey's Grandpa Ben
is the domanent male role model in his life. This is right out of the old teachings. A grandfather or great uncle would traditionally
take on the role of teacher to a young boy like Joey. While the father would work to provide for his family, the elder who
are getting too old for the physical work would talk on the honored role of teaching the next generation. This was mainly
because the elders have the most life experience and can share many things with a child that the parents have not yet experienced.
