The Serviceberry

A short read on the gift economy; an expansion of an essay, and an always-welcome reminder of how backwards American society is when it comes to human flourishing.

A bite-sized reinvigoration of our connection to the earth and the natural reciprocal relationships we resist in the interest of market share. Robin Wall Kimmerer is at once asking more of us but in the compassionate correction of a well-practiced schoolteacher. Well worth revisiting on a regular basis.

A thoughtful exploration of Gift Economies, asking us to remember that every one of us is the product of infinite gifting: not just from our families and loved ones but from countless organisms stretching back and back. Remembering this helps us feel thankful, which in turn helps us remember our responsibility to give back wherever and however we can. (Kimmerer says it much more eloquently and convincingly than I can. Please read and reflect.)

The economics sections spoiled the book for me. She constantly admits not knowing stuff about economics and it shows. It should've remained an essay. Quite repetitive and boring.

For a second at the beginning I was like oh this is a little woo woo (and some is) but it's great food for thought

I wish I felt more optimistic that we could turn things around.