Frank Sinatra had The Rat Pack, Kanye West has a clique, and I have a thrive tribe. Most of you reading this are probably thinking: What is a thrive tribe, and should I get one? A thrive tribe consists of the people in your life that help guide you through your unique journey. These individuals are very important for ones growth and mental health, which are reasons why I highly recommend having one. Life can get rocky at times and with the assistance of your tribe you can get through almost anything thrown your way, and come back better than you were before.
In Kenya, the Gabra tribe remains nomadic and continues to reject Western culture because its influence would diminish their traditions. Some of the Gabra's traditions are their transitory lifestyle, agrarian society, and willingness to help one another. The reason why tribal members are so willing to help one another is because mutual support is essential for their survival as nomads. Because of this belief the Gabra Tribe lives by the proverb: "a poor man shames us all," meaning no member will be allowed to go hungry, go without livestock, or be refused shelter or help.
Just like the Gabra tribe, thrive tribes must help one another even when there is nothing in it for themselves. Acts of selflessness are crucial for tribes because in time everyone will play the role of tribal elder, and give back to their members during their time of need. The advice one obtains from their tribe should always be honest and never misguiding. These aspects are key for thrive tribes, without honesty and sincerity a tribe will lack stability and crumble before ones eyes.
Another important quality my tribe members must have is respect for one another. Everyone is from different backgrounds, has different beliefs, and is their own person; therefore, we must cherish tribe members for their differences. These differences allow us to increase our knowledge and gain a better perspective on how others view the world. Having tribe members from various backgrounds has allowed me to appreciate diversity. I now see the world through a new set of eyes making myself more open-minded and knowledgeable.
One of the most important qualities I seek in tribal members is that they are constantly working to turn their passions into realities. Doing this is easier said than done, but once you are on your way it is worth the journey. Achieving your goals takes hard work, perseverance, positivity, and a great tribe to guide you along the way. I am fortunate to have tribe members who continue to assist me with any inquiry. Having these people in my life has made my journey worthwhile.
With over seven billion people in the world it is harder than you think to find your tribe. The funniest part about most tribes is that you will meet your tribesmen when you least expect it. Be open to new experiences, be helpful to strangers, and be friendly to people in your surroundings. These 'strangers' can add something unique to your journey, and make it more colorful than you ever dreamed was possible.
Without my thrive tribe I would not be the person I am today. These people have changed me for the better, and I hope I have done the same for them.
Reference
"At the Threshold: An Action Guide for Cultural Survival- The Gabra." Cultural Survival Quarterly: 16.2, Summer 1992. Web. April 6, 2015.