The Serviceberry: A Gift Economy Model

Robin Wall Kimmerer, an indigenous scientist and author, wrote an essay about the Serviceberry that provides us with a model for interdependence and coevolution that are at the heart of the ecological economy. The Serviceberry teaches us another way to understand relationships and exchange. The gift economy can be understood through the lens of Indigenous People and their traditional foodways and lifeways. The Serviceberry provides us with a model of reciprocity rather than accumulation. The gift economy gives value to relationships that inspire belonging, purpose and beauty.
 
The traditional ‘giveaway’ ceremonies were designed to reinforce relationships through gift giving. I have included original pictures from Father Don Doll who gave these unpublished photos to me for my blog chapter-The Giveaway Girl. My story of adoption and reunion is connected to the lessons of the Indigenous People and the wisdom held within the giveaway ceremony.
 
The following link takes you to Robin Wall Kimmerer’s essay. It is a beautiful story that connects us to the prosperity of sharing through the commons. She explains how both incremental change and creative disruption give rise to renewal and diversity.
 
How can we engage in expanding networks where the principles of the gift economy foster mutual flourishing? How can we experience a deeper sense of belonging through the ‘giveaway’ ritual? Becoming consciously aware of these alternative forms of exchange opens space for mutual flourishing in/on Earthship. Through the ‘giveaway’ we can experience sacred reciprocity. The natural world inspires us to embody reciprocity, interconnectedness, and gratitude. Let the Serviceberry teach you how to belong in more meaningful ways through the gift economy.

https://emergencemagazine.org/essay/the-serviceberry/