FORGIVENESS
In the Babemba tribe of South Africa, when a person acts
irresponsibly or unjustly, he is placed in the centre of the
village, alone and unfettered.
All work ceases, and every man, woman, and child in the village
gathers in a large circle around the accused individual.
Then each person in the tribe speaks to the accused, one at a time,
each recalling the good things the person in the centre of the
circle has done in his lifetime. Every incident, every experience
that can be recalled with any detail and accuracy,
is recounted. All his positive attributes, good deeds, strengths,
and kindnesses are recited carefully and at length. This tribal
ceremony often lasts for several days.
At the end, the tribal circle is broken, a joyous celebration takes
place, and the person is symbolically and literally welcomed back
into the tribe.
The Art of Forgiveness
via Christi Becker
