You might’ve come across this term, interdependence, and aren’t quite sure what it means. Allow me to elucidate.
Humans tend to operate on a spectrum between hyper-independence and enmeshed codependence. Around the world, and across our history, we find larger scale cultural examples of rugged individualism (which often diminishes the role of community), as well as fierce collectivism (which is inclined to sacrifice the sovereignty of the individual).
Where we find the most sustainable and equitable thriving, however, is also where we find egalitarian interdependence. This is where the fact that we are all interconnected is fully acknowledged and appreciated.
At its fullest expression, it extends beyond interdependence among humans, and encompasses all Life, and even all things (matter, events, frequencies…).
A conscious practice of interdependence brings about the magnificent synergy of independently sovereign individuals, collaborating collectively. Self-reliant, yet supporting one another, and honoring the interbeing of all Existence.
We are all pieces of the same whole. What any one of us does has an effect on the rest of us.
Zooming in on one-to-one human relationships
As social beings, we do have certain needs that require interaction with others for our wellbeing.
Yet, when we stray too far away from the balance of interdependence, we find ourselves on a merry-go-round of extreme independence and enmeshed codependence.
The journey back to center requires the paradoxical blend of a secure sense of Self and a connected sense of Oneness.
Finding Balance
For those of us with insecure attachment styles, we are inclined towards codependence, and our task is to shift our locus of security from outside of us to within.
With an internally rooted source of security, we can bring stability to our foundation, which allows us to find balance in ourselves. From there, we can engage in Relationship in a balanced way.
How balanced do you feel?
(Updated April 2, 2021)