Communal living and human nature?

I grew up as a missionary kid on one of the largest missionary bases in the world. Its structure had a lot in common with a commune because of the ideals of the community members. I loved those ideals, but I hated seeing them back-fire because of the negative tendencies of human nature (jealousy, judgment, etc).





Now as an adult, I'm confronted with the idea of entering into a christian commune in philadelphia. The place sounds like heaven from what I've read and I agree with all my heart on the principles of the place, but I know that it's not perfect and I'll have to deal with the downsides of people in close habitat again. It scares me, but I feel that I can't base a decision on being uncomfortable with things that I can't change or run from....





I'm very torn on this. Is it really healthy to enter into a situation that I know will be riddled with painful short-comings?Communal living and human nature?
you have to weigh the good and the bad, Make a list of the good things and the bad things and see who wins. At least you know that its not gonna be all roses and you are prepared for that. When you make your list be sure to include what you are leaving and how hard will it be to get back if things don't work out. Is it worth it?Communal living and human nature?
You are going into this situation with your eyes open. Only you can determine whether you're able to deal with the human issues that crop up in communal living. I think you'll probably be successful in your new habitat, and may even be able to facilitate positive, loving change in the areas that need it. Best of luck to you!
Everything has shortcomings or drawbacks. You never know if a new situation will be successful or a learning experience, or just plain awful until you experience it. So prejudging what you might expect sometimes leads you to expect disappointment, rather than a new and exciting way of life. If it sounds interesting and exciting to you, go for it. Nothing says you can't change your mind if you don't like it and move on. But if you don't then you will wonder if you made the right decision or not. Good luck!
It is generally unhealthy to live in close quarters with others. Your productivity and creativity will suffer and you will be forced to conform to the wishes of the group to some degree.


This being said, it is up to you weather you thing that those conditions are heathy for the way you want to live your life. If in doubt, don't drink the cool aid.