Several people had gathered to hear the Lakota elder talk, and participate with him in a series of ceremonies. I recall that one of the participants commented afterward that it was difficult to believe that—of all people—these Indians and those who supposedly appreciated their ways (enough, at least, to come to see the old man speak and conduct ritual) would use disposable plates and napkins, and eat such high-sugar, high-fat diets (potato chips, soft drinks, and other snacks were often the main fare). This was fascinating to me, for this person was a sustainability practitioner (one who implemented sustainability plans in educational environments). Although likely influenced by popularized depictions of the environmentally “noble savage,” underlying her comment was a perception that sustainability was ultimately about particular behaviors and consumer choices. In contrast, many of those in the academy, particularly those who studied sustainability as it related to religious beliefs and practices, perceived that moving toward sustainability was primarily about correcting erroneous worldviews or a shift in consciousness. The American Indians gathered there, particularly those who led the ceremonies, did not often resort to using the word sustainability, but when they did it referred to strengthening their spiritual community in a way that would allow it to persist over time. Moreover, they often talked (without referencing sustainability) about obligations to future generations and to non-human beings.