In some African countries when someone does something wrong, they are taken to the centre of the village and the community members speak of all the good that they have done.  The community believe each person is good, sometimes making mistakes as a cry for help. This ritual encourages the individual  to reconnect with their true nature. The belief is that unity and affirmation have more power to change behaviour than shame and punishment.  This is known as “UBUNTU” - humanity towards others.

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“Bringing people together is what I call ‘UBUNTU’ which means “I AM BECAUSE WE ARE.”

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Far too often people think of themselves as just individuals, separated from one another, whereas you are connected and what you do effects the whole world. “

 

- Desmond Tutu