Today I recall Polly Wiessner’s research on the Ju/’hoansi Bushmen in Africa. I love how she discusses “Firelight Talk” and how the community would gather to share personal stories around the campfire. The ancient desire to connect over stories, she argues, remains today.

I think about what tale I would tell about who I am and where I’m going, what matters most, and what wisdom I might pass on if I were there among the Bushmen. I think about listening quietly to all the others, nodding my head and closing my eyes in agreement of truth.

I think about the firelight talk, the circle of warmth, and the evening stars. I think about loving a community, living intentionally with them, and sharing stories to bond and grow.

Now I want to get one of those outside fire pits and invite all the neighbors over.