As I was organizing my files, I found one of my favorite rituals from South Africa. In this time of polarity and focus on “the other”, this gives me hope that we can one day resolve conflict in a peaceful way. Thank you Jerri Allyn for introducing it to me years ago.
The Babemba Tribe in South Africa have a unique solution to deal with transgressions in their society. When a member of the tribe acts irresponsibly or unjustly, she is seated in the center of the village alone. All work stops and every man, woman and child in the village gathers in a large circle around the accused.
While they are sitting on a chair, each member of the tribe has a turn telling him all the good things the person in the center of the circle has done in his or her lifetime. They speak of every incident, every experience that can be recalled with detail and accuracy. They speak out loud about his/her talents and gifts.
There is only one rule. No one can tell anything that is not true. No one is allowed to fabricate, exaggerate or be facetious about his or her accomplishments or personality.
Imagine sitting on a chair for hours … sometimes days… and only hearing good things about yourself. Everyone, from the oldest grandmother to the youngest child has their chance to sit with you and share with you your positive attributes, good deeds, strengths and kindness.
The ceremony lasts until everyone is drained of every positive comment she has thought of about the person in question.
At the end of the ceremony, the circle is broken and a joyous celebration takes place, and the person is symbolically and literally welcomed back into the tribe. The person is also expected to make retribution for his/her deeds in some way.
Create a version of this ritual to bring into your company, school or organization. Then share with me your results.
IG LIVE ON WEDNESDAYS
I am looking for people to interview on my Joy of Ritual Segment on Wednesdays. If you have an interesting ritual and/or ritual product to share on my IG, please contact me at info@barbarabiziou.com.
Many Blessings,
Barbara