A small church around the corner has a book club. They have recently been reading Sebastian Junger’s book, Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging. According to news reports, Tribe is Junger’s last book about war. “As last words go, it’s a good way to end, as this particular monograph may end up shaping—and changing—how the current generation of troops feels about combat and coming home.”
In many ways, the point of the book is less about war and more about modern culture. Writing about the detriment of chronic self-centeredness and the loneliness that can be part of modern living, the author encourages Americans to be intentional about recapturing some of the characteristics of our tribal roots where we pulled together and protected one another from the hardships of life.
What impressed me about this small church’s members reading this particular book is the truth that they are already doing what the author is encouraging. I was in that church for the funeral of the adult son of one of the members. Folks had gathered around this family with open heart and open arms.
The kitchen was filled with women from another church (another faith tradition) who were busy doing what they could to help at a difficult time.
The parking lot and the sanctuary was filled with hundreds of friends, relatives, neighbors, and co-workers.
I have never been to combat, so I cannot say for sure what it is like to know you are side-by-side, and day-to-day, with other human beings who are there for you, but it is clear to me we have ample opportunity to do this even in peaceful times and safe spaces.
This week, whereever you are, and whatever you are doing, be aware of all that supports your survival. Appreciate what you have and share generously from that space of genuine appreciation. You might only be able to offer a smile, but that might just be a life-saving exchange. For sure, it will be life-giving. My friend, Kathy Zerler says if we treat everyone we meet as though he or she is in pain, we would very often be treating them right. Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with US.
Tips from 5 April 2010 to 6 August 2012 are here: Archived Tips
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Rev. Debra Basham
Voice or text: (269) 921-2217 Email: debra@scs-matters.com https://scs-matters.com http://ImagineHealing.info http://SurgicalSupport.info Small Changes … Infinite Results™
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” ~ Mother Teresa |