Tribal Blessings

by Maria Corse
 
Everyone identifies as part of a group that accepts them for exactly who they are.  As human beings, we naturally seek out those most like us; people with similar interests, passions, belief systems, and ideologies. 
 
I will argue, however, that when tribal affiliations, obedience, and blind acceptance of group dogma trump critical thinking, not to mention, common sense, the positive benefits of membership are irreversibly annihilated.
 
The ability to divide populations and influence the behavior, and, thoughts of vast numbers of people is, indeed, a powerful testament to the tribal mentality.
 
Whether it is The Democratic, Republican, or Green party, Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, Paganism, Animism, Atheism, or Humanism, Pro-gun or Anti-gun, stay-at-home Moms or Mothers in the work force, Pro-Life or Pro-Choice, Environmentalists or Climate Change Deniers, black, brown, or white, quilters or knitters, organic or conventional farmers - - - the list goes on and on.
 
These affiliations all have one thing in common – creating the other --- providing reasons to judge and hate.
 
We can voluntarily educate ourselves, as one way to bring an end to the senseless violence and hostility --- unapologetically question, investigate, and understand the “party line” before jumping on the bandwagon. Above all, be willing to be wrong, and, be prepared to accept an idea that was previously counter to your closely held beliefs. This will allow us all to meet as a tribe of fellow human beings with love, compassion, empathy, and understanding instead of loathing and fear. Blessings will be upon us all, because, one encounter at a time, we will change the state of this world.

DRC NEWS
 
Deep Root Center is accepting applications for membership for the 2016/17 academic year.  Maria is available to meet with students and their families to listen to their
individual stories and discuss the benefits of Deep Root Center membership.  You can contact her to set up an appointment
 
Maker - Space

We need some help getting the Maker Space room functional.  If you are available to install shelving, move furniture and supplies into the space, please get in touch. 
 
Summer Programs
 
Tons of fun in a cool air-conditioned facility – register today! 
 
New email addresses  

to contact Maria – [email protected]; for general information – [email protected].  Stay-tuned for other staff member’s deeprootcenter.org addresses.  They will be initiated soon.
 

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