Responsibilities of youth in learning Ayaawx
Responsibilities of Youth in Learning Ayaawx
In Ts’msyen law, youth are not passive recipients of knowledge. They are **active carriers of future law**.
The responsibility to learn *ayaawx* is shared between Elders and youth, but learning itself requires **commitment, discipline, and conduct** on the part of youth.
Law survives only when it is learned properly and lived forward.
Youth as Future Carriers of Law
Youth hold a unique position in Ts’msyen society.
They are:
- future name holders
- future house leaders
- future Elders
- future keepers of ayaawx
Learning ayaawx is not optional preparation; it is a **duty to future generations**.
Responsibility to Listen and Observe
The first responsibility of youth is attentiveness.
This includes:
- listening carefully to Elders
- observing conduct in feasts
- watching how disputes are resolved
- noting how correction is carried out
Ayaawx is learned as much through observation as through instruction.
Responsibility to Learn Adaawx
Youth must learn the adaawx of:
- their wilp
- their clan
- related houses and territories
Adaawx provide:
- legal precedent
- moral guidance
- boundaries of authority
- lessons from past success and failure
Without adaawx, ayaawx cannot be understood.
Responsibility to Ask and Clarify
Youth are expected to ask questions respectfully.
Asking:
- deepens understanding
- prevents misunderstanding
- shows readiness to learn
- strengthens transmission of law
Silence in confusion leads to error later.
Responsibility to Practice Conduct
Ayaawx is learned through conduct.
Youth are responsible for:
- behaving properly in feasts
- showing respect across clans
- accepting correction
- practicing humility and restraint
Good conduct prepares youth for future authority.
Responsibility to Accept Correction
Correction is a gift under Ts’msyen law.
Youth must:
- accept correction without resentment
- reflect on mistakes
- repair harm when required
- carry lessons forward
Avoidance of correction weakens readiness for leadership.
Responsibility to Learn Roles Gradually
Youth are not expected to carry full authority immediately.
They learn by:
- assisting Elders and name holders
- supporting feast work
- observing negotiations and disputes
- gradually taking on responsibility
Authority comes through preparation, not demand.
Responsibility to Protect Law from Distortion
As youth mature, they are responsible for:
- resisting misuse of ayaawx
- distinguishing law from convenience
- protecting teachings from dilution
- correcting misinformation when appropriate
Future law depends on present vigilance.
Responsibility to Teach in Time
Learning carries an obligation to teach.
As youth become adults, they must:
- pass knowledge to those who follow
- support Elders in teaching roles
- ensure continuity of law
Knowledge withheld is knowledge lost.
Relationship to Elders and the Council
Youth learn under the guidance of:
- Elders within the wilp
- clan Elders
- respected knowledge keepers
- the wider Elder body that safeguards ayaawx
Respect for Elders ensures lawful transmission.
Ayaawx as Living Responsibility
Learning ayaawx is not memorization.
It is:
- lived practice
- moral discipline
- relational responsibility
- preparation for service
Youth do not inherit law automatically. They earn readiness through learning, conduct, and respect.