Tribes

     When we read the word tribes, we often picture Native Americans or other groups in the jungles of Africa and South America or in the outback of Australia.  They usually are non-white with native traditions and styles of dress.  They band together to survive, to share with their members, and to continue their traditional ways.  We sometimes do not realize that we are also members of tribes.
     Your extended family is a type of tribe with relatives helping each other and passing on value systems and long-held traditions.  Your church is another type of tribe organized to benefit all it's members and passing on religious beliefs.  Political parties are tribes who help each other get elected and retain power while furthering a particular agenda.  Other organizations seek loyal members who agree on purpose and objectives.
    Most tribes have a loyalty to their own members and believe that their survival depends on protecting their own.  When cooperation with other tribes is difficult, battles may ensue.  When more "civilized" tribes don't cooperate, the battle of words can begin.  Discussions and debates can be healthy until the overpowering objective is to win the battle. 
     In primitive tribes, survival depends on loyalty.  In our more complex world, survival depends on cooperation.