Tribe Of Light

Tribe of Light “We are human because we belong. We are made for community, for togetherness, for family to exist in a delicate network of interdependence.” - Desmond Tutu I was inspired to learn that in certain regions of South Africa, when someone does something wrong, that person is taken to the center of the village and surrounded by their tribe. For two days, the tribe speaks of all the good that this person has done. The tribe believes that each person is inherently good, yet sometimes makes mistakes, which is really a cry for help. They unite in this ritual to encourage the person to reconnect with his or her true nature. The belief is that unity and affirmation have more power to change behavior than shame and punishment. This is known as Ubuntu, “I am because we are.” This example of community exemplifies the idea that we are all in this human race together, and when we recognize this co-existent relationship, we are able to lift each other’s spirits as we lift our own. This book, Tribe of Light, is a compilation of stories from transformational coaches, therapists and other healing practitioners. These nine women share their truth, wisdom and lessons of how community helped them HEAL through difficulties and challenges in their own lives. I am honored to have collaborated with these amazing women who recognize their humanness on their path of remembrance and wholeness. As referenced in my last book, Beacon of Light, we are all like empty canvasses, and just as the creation of art, we change, transform and become beautiful masterpieces of timeless existence. Community is an important part of this transformational process. We need each other as reflections of ourselves, so that we can SEE and GROW into what we truly are… magnificent essences of light and love. Everyone experiences their journey differently. These stories will give you a glimpse into how community interactions and connections have shaped the lives of these contributing writers. Our hope is this book will give you some insight into your own personal journey as well. Community. When we break down this word, we find UNITY in it. Yes, as the saying goes, “We are in this together.” We are meant to recognize the beauty in each other as individuals and the remarkable UNIT we are too. Our collective experiences and challenges, which we face in our everyday lives, helps us to see that we truly need and care for each other tremendously. The world cannot continue to be separated and torn apart. It is time we understand that we are an integral part of each other. Whether our time is spent more alone in our introspection, or with a group of people, we must open our eyes to the understanding that we are all connected. Our planet, and everything on it is bound by an invisible connection between people, animals, plants, trees, the air, the water, and the soil. Actions on our part, whether positive or negative, can have an impact on people and the environment. Staying conscious of the interconnection between all things can help us think of our choices and our life in terms of the broader effect we may be creating.  My wish for you, as you read this book, is to have an open heart as you delve into your own healing process and reflect on how the interconnection of all of us – and within your personal communities - plays a role in your decisions and natural state of well-being. With gratitude, Andrea