4 ms·
I can argue a multi-generational family is essentially its own community. Historically most people didn't move all that much. So you can still see this in many
by offtop5 6y ago
I can argue a multi-generational family is essentially its own community.
Historically most people didn't move all that much. So you can still see this in many non-western countries. Your cousins live in your community, your parents see their brothers and sisters very often, and this forms a support structure.
My theory is this accounts for why mental illness is so rampant in Western countries, but comes nowhere close in more community oriented cultures. Tribe, is an outstanding book on this topic. We aren't meant to be a bunch of autonomous units competing against each other.
- smitty1e 6y agoSure. The size of a healthy clan is around that of Dunbar's Number, for cognitive reasons.
- sep_field 6y agobirth families are a terrible way to form communities. I despise my birth family and have nothing in common with them other than genetics. My real family is my friends.
- smitty1e 6y agoI hope that healing, forgiveness, and joy become possible at some point in your situation. That's just not always attainable, I know.
- sep_field 6y agoThank you. I've been trying to be open to that possibility but so far it has eluded me. I really appreciate your compassionate encouragement.