There is a limit to how many friends you can have. I got very angry with Theresa May's "Citizen of Nowhere" comment, but there is an element of truth. If you don't commit to an area in which you are 'local', it is like having lots of acquaintances, but no close friends. Spending focused time building relationships does cut you off from others. Part of resolving the 'Nationalism v Globalism' clash is recognising the strengths in both sides of the battle. Community Building necessarily requires the creation of us and them. "Provincial" is defined a "concerning the regions outside the capital city of a country, especially when regarded as unsophisticated or narrow-minded". Like choosing a career, some people will specialise in a community. I don't think that is a problem. It can be beautiful. Unsophisticated can be closer to a simple, clear, deep understanding. It is actually the sophistication of deep relationships that makes them inaccessible to casual passers-through. The key is making sure we don't lose each other. That our path of self-determination lets go of hierarchy, recognises our interdependence, and allows for healthy, if uncomfortable, conversation.
Provincial Simplicity
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