Tribes

Sophisticated societies aggregate upward from families to tribes, to an eventual nation state. This process is accelerated by benevolent conditions, including economic security, cultural homogeneity and peace. Catastrophic events force these aggregates to reverse themselves…there is an inevitable return to tribalism. The like-minded -in culture, religion and shared values- re-form to face dire threats. Moses, Mandela, Tecumseh faced the upward movement of the process as they tried to fashion more sophisticated aggregates. These leaders hoped for tribes to become nations with the power that a nation state could wield.

Today, our shared catastrophes have forced us into “pods” and “bubbles” and other small congregations that seem “safe.’ We have become tribes once again. Political divisions have fragmented us further-to the point where inconsistent, tribal attitudes have defeated our larger identity as Americans. We now seek solace around smaller campfires. Fancier aggregates -from the House of Representatives to the corporate “team”- offer only cold comfort. We only feel safe among the like-minded and the frequently tested.

I don’t see this as a bad thing.

My tribe is the Gang of Eight. This aggregate of four couples shares values, family lore, aspirations and historic tales of battles won and lost. I know of their children, inlaws and friends. We share the stories of the progress through life. Each couple is committed to buying a propane fire pit so we can gather in cold weather. The campfire beckons.

The movement to smaller congregations has been invariably positive as it adds depth to relationships and gives us the opportunity to explore everything from politics to spirituality. We are sustained by the group. Yes, wine helps. Tribal intoxicants appear in most tribal societies. Events have forced us to down-size our social group but it has also provided the opportunity to know one another in depth.

Gather around the fire. Share your tribal lore.