... Wise Ones taught us that we had to earn (italic- author's) our Eagle Feathers. This meant that we were judged by our actions, which showed whether we were worthy of wearing the Medicine contained in the Eagle's feathers. Acts of kindness, unselfish generosity, caring for those in need, and being a good model for children emulated those high ideals<...>.
Today, we are asked to observe how other people are walking their lives, and how we are walking ours. Are the people who use their lives to help others being honored? Are we too busy to see the value of those who are earning their Eagle feathers? <...> If others have walked tall, influencing your life, it may be time to let them know how deeply you are grateful. If they had not walked tall, would you know the difference between earning respect and expecting the world to contribute to you? (bold - mine)
This last thought is so interesting!