The concept of cultural repair is not a clearly defined theory or activity – and that’s probably how it should be.
So it’s a bit silly to come up with the Five Steps of Cultural Repair, of which this video is Step 3.
But I frame it like this because it helps me think about foundational concepts, which I do think are important, as long as we also remember they are ongoing processes, not static theoretical positions.
I also frame it like this because brains, mine at least but probably not only, struggle with the vast complexity of cultural repair work and I sometimes need relief from complexity, and nothing creates relief like Five Steps to Something Something.
I do think cultural repair work requires us to expand our capacity for complexity, unknowing, and the discomfort of both – but just like building physical muscles, rest time is essential for growth.
Your thoughts?
Love to read your thoughts on Step 3 in the comments – it’s such an ongoing process that needs collective support!
I love this, and I hate it. I have been finding little u tantrum times helpful… a kicking, screaming 2yo tantrum on my bed about being told what to do to grow up seems to help get some energy out so that I can realise how delusional my little u is being and instead go for a bloody walk.
Yep, me too, every day! Not the tantrum so much, but the persistent delusions of the Little U – it’s hard when its the dominant cultural position you have to live in. I try to imagine living in a culture that is ‘grown up’ and at least in my fantasy, it’s a hell of lot easier when everyone else is doing it!