I love this openly raw and so deeply honest share. What a blessing, in my book, that you had the upbringing you did. I feel it gives you supreme "eyes to see" outside of the culture. I grew up in the suburb feeling very out of place and carrying a deep sadness I couldn't explain and didn't understand. It wasn't until college and really a permaculture course where I started to find people who really grasp the situation that you describe.
I think a lot about tribe and belonging and yes we are social creatures to varying degrees. To me, it is just as much about being solid in your own conviction as it is to have people to stand next to you and decry the same things as you AND pick up the garden tool and do the hard work that needs to get done. I need that support and I hope all the people who are different, but walking a good path with clear sight get it too. Again, great share :)
Thanks for the thoughtful reply. I'm glad you appreciated this and found value in my honesty. If we can't be honest, than what can we be, right? I'm not a religious man, but I've become increasingly more spiritual since I dropped religion. I do believe there is something in many of us that calls us to return to nature. Maybe it's a genetic predisposition, or maybe some quantum entanglement we don't quite understand yet. But I recall early on in my life feeling that same sadness. I've always felt the call, but I couldn't quite describe or understand it until I moved out here.
I 100% agree this is best lived out with companions and community who share the same cause. Also, there are many folks who are doing great things living in cities and working "jobs." I'm for all Intentional, "woke", communities, wherever they may live, eat, and work.