Appreciation of ” the diversity of life” is typically an important value that people in intentional communities share. A large variety of plant and animal life is something that is held in high esteem. Let’s not forget that the same understanding also applies to the gathering of individuals that comprise a community.

To have all kinds of people with very different characters in the group can be a great asset for the community. Of paramount importance from the beginning is to have clear agreements and stick to them, even if that means that some people will leave the group. In the long run that is better than trying to water down the original vision and mold it to everybody’s personal preferences.

Written agreements are crucial, as well as establishing processes that keep the group members accountable to each other in a loving and bonding way. In this way, potential controversies and divergence at a later stage where they are much more painful and destructive can be prevented.