ABSTRACT
M y ancestors are with me. For this, I am truly grateful. Th ey have given me my genes and my DNA. Th ey have also given me my social environment, culture, and family. Regardless of the hardship they may have sent my way or the obstacles I must now overcome, I stand in awe of the gift s they have given me-the human capacity to survive, problem-solve, and thrive. At center stage is the power of interpersonal process. First, we learn to survive as babies with the essential help from our family and caregiving network. Later, we contribute to the survival of the species as we form bonds outside these circles and reproduce. Th ose who do not reproduce contribute to survival of the species through creation of community and social supports (Small, 2011; Kropotkin, 1902).
