Tipi Etiquette

* If the door is open, a friend may enter the tipi directly. But if it is closed, he should announce his presence and wait for the owner to invite him to come in.
* A male enters to the right and waits for the host to invite him to sit to the left of the owner at the rear. Be hospitable.
* Always assume your guest is tired, cold, and hungry.
* Always give your guest the place of honor in the lodge and at the feast, and serve him in reasonable ways.
* Invited guests are expected to bring their own bowls and spoons.
* Never sit while your guests stand.
* Woman never sit cross-legged like men. They can sit on their heels or with their legs to one side.
* If your guests refuses certain foods, say nothing. He may be under vow.
* Protect your guest as one of the family.
* Do not trouble your guest with many questions about himself. He will tell you what he wants to know.
* In another man’s lodge, follow his customs-not your own.
* Never worry your host with your troubles.
* Always repay calls of courtesy. Do not delay.
* Give your host a little present upon leaving. Little presents are little courtesies and never offend.
* Say "thank you" for every gift, however small.
* Compliment, even if you strain the facts to do so.
* Never walk between persons talking.
* Never interrupt persons talking.
* Always give place to your seniors in entering or leaving the lodge, or anywhere.
* Never sit while your seniors stand.
* Never force your conversations on anyone.
* Speak softly, especially before your elders, or in the presence of strangers.
* Never come between anyone and the fire.
* Do not stare at strangers. Drop your eyes if they stare hard at you; above all for women.
* The woman of the lodge are the keepers of the fire, but the men should help with the heavier sticks.
* Be kind
* Show respect to all men and women, but grovel to none.
* Let silence be your motto, until duty bids you to speak.
* Thank the Great Spirit for every meal.