Page 27 - C.A.L.L. #31 - Spring 2009

viable way of life and others that struggled with practicalities versus

ideals. I saw ways that people could live and support one another, in many
forms that could suit a broad range of personalities. The only

difference was that these people saw merit in the collective, in the
support and unity of community, rather than the individualistic way that

mainstream ‘society’ promotes.

Having had little experience of
what true community meant I

found the experience to be an eye-
opening glimpse into the

alternative. I cannot do the
communities justice in one article.

I feel that my journey has not yet
ended and my visits have sparked Stewards woodlands: Based in the woods

something in me that I wish to of Devon, pictured is an example of
pursue. I want to continue to community members’ homes. This
examine why people choose this community was one of the most
interesting I visited - living close to
way of life, challenge the nature, without the creature comforts that
misconceptions and show it is an I am used to.

alternative to the mainstream.

The three other communities included…
I am currently working in a
A therapeutic community, for people
with deep rooted psychological issues, University as a Research
offering a space for group therapy, Assistant, carrying out qualitative
reflection, and a chance to take
responsibility again for their lives. research in Mental Health, but
would love the opportunity to
A deeply religious community, who lived
a more basic life, free of television, study communities further and am
papers, or computers. Over 170 people considering embarking on a PhD. If
lived here, many of whom grew up anyone reading this may be able to
within the community, and stuck closely
to Christian values. offer advice or funding
opportunities on how to take this
The last was a community based in
London. Members were diverse, and all further please get in touch…
worked in a range of professions from
acting, to prison staff to labourers. The
house provided a sense of community to Alexia Demetriou
those who maintained much of the alexia.demetriou@hotmail.com
mainstream way of life.

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