I crave community, conversations, and reflections.  Often on a daily basis.  It not only nourishes me, but helps me to achieve clarity in ways beyond my own doing, thinking, and being.  It takes a community to raise a child, but also to cultivate self awareness and release the potential found in many of us.  I am who I because of the many relationships I have encountered along the way.  Some have been limited in length of time, but no less limited in their impact.   They have all shaped me.

For me, I am seeking something even greater than a community, I am seeking a tribe.  To many this is probably one in the same, but not for me.  Tribal members may come from a variety of the communities I am apart of, but these tribesmen and tribeswomen hold even greater meaning and purpose.  These are soul changes and motivators.  They reach a deeper level.  This is not to say that my communities are minimized, they just serve a different purpose and cause within my life.  Not better or worse, just different.

Satisfying a need for personal and professional growth.  I’d like to say that I am capable of doing everything on my own, but that’s far from the truth.  Growth, personal and professional, comes from the experience and wisdom of others.  It comes from acknowledging our areas (and need) of improvement and opportunity – or sometimes having those areas starkly pointed out to us.  Feedback is a gift, honest feedback from the mouth of someone we respect is an even greater gem.  It is one that we need to reflect upon and be willing to address as well as take action as appropriate.

Satisfying a need for support and motivation.  I want nothing more than to do good and be amazing.  Not in a narcissistic way, but for the betterment of society.  I often find myself stuck and paralyzed by my own ideas (or at times personal frustrations).  I am forever grateful for those who have supported and motivated me quite often when I have been unable to find the silver lining myself.

Opening myself to the journey and creation of a tribe.  Tribes develop organically over time.  We collect people, tribesmen and women, as we go through our lives.  If we’re open, honest, and giving we will soon find ourselves part of a tribe that satisfies, nurtures, and challenges the many facets of our being.  Most often when we least expect it, but when we need it the most. This process requires patience, but most importantly it means that we need to allow ourselves to be vulnerable and humble.

I often worry that I share too many of my shortcomings, insecurities, and confidence waivers.  Now I know that this only makes me human and results in the most beautiful moments and meaningful relationships.

My own tribe is a work in progress.  I do not have physical access to many of them, and some of those I have never met in person, yet they all support, shape, and inspire me daily.  These are individuals who push me to be better.  I pushing myself to be open to and trust in the developing strength, truth, and respect that is found in each of these relationships.

How do you satisfy your need for a community of tribesmen (and women), wisdom filled tribal elders, and those who will stretch you heart, mind, and soul?

[Image by MuseumWales via Flickr]