Tour of Tamera

As anticipated, things are so busy here it’s hard to find time to blog. Which is great in a way.

50 people! 50 on the course! Wow that’s big. They usually have 15 or so. How inspiring to me that so many more are interested in this type of living.

Day 1 of the introduction week gave us a great overview of the place, it’s history and principles. From what I gather this whole week will not be enough to get a full picture of the place, let alone one day. It’s a very comprehensive bubbling pot of research in how to live sustainably.

They hold very close attention to both the outer world of international politics and the environment, and the inner world of the self.

The land is is currently designated as agricultural so there are few permanent buildings. One does not get a sense of physical presence of the community, though the immediate honesty and powerful conviction of the people more than makes up for it.

Much of the region is undergoing desertification and has been for quite a while. They know how to stop desertification. They have stopped it and reversed it. It’s incredible.

By using permaculture techniques, they have had a profound affect on the local ecology. Not only are they growing food, but they are also restoring the landscape to its abundant and vibrant natural state.

One aspect we are both curious and nervous of its the ‘free love’ idea. Will we have to have open relationships? Is everybody shacking up with everyone else? What will happen to us when we go there?

Turns out its none of these things and I really respect this free love idea. Simply put: everyone is free to love how they want to love, while being respectful of others. Consequently this brings up many issues, but in my opinion it’s better to recognise and express than conceal your feelings. They have developed a very strong space, and very powerful tools for helping resolve difficulties and to help everyone to meet their emotional needs.