We are relational beings, meaning we need to be in relationship with other beings to be healthy and happy. Our society, however, teaches us that the ultimate in personal development is to be independent, and not to need anyone. Don’t get me wrong—not all relationships are created equal. It is better to be alone than [...]
For the overwhelming majority of our evolutionary history, we have lived in semi-nomadic tribes. As the human nervous system evolved over tens of thousands of years, we lived in small, highly-bonded groups of approximately forty to one hundred people. For each child in the tribe, there were about sixteen adults available to provide them with [...]
Piglet sidled up to Pooh from behind. “Pooh! he whispered. “Yes, Piglet?” “Nothing,” said Piglet, taking Pooh’s paw. “I just wanted to be sure of you.” -A.A. Milne We all need reassurance now and then, reassurance that our friend or partner is there for us. It is one of our basic human needs. Call [...]
