Creating networks of loving, trustworthy others who share the burden of child-rearing, reflecting Rabia's lived experience of belonging within spiritual community.
Though often depicted in solitude, Rabia lived within community—spiritual seekers gathered around her wisdom. This concept affirms that secure bonding extends beyond the dyad of mother and child. Infants thrive with multiple secure attachment figures; community provides resilience, diverse modeling, and practical support that strengthens rather than threatens primary bonds. In many traditional cultures influenced by Islamic thought like Rabia's era, child-rearing was communal. Modern isolation of nuclear families contradicts both human development science and Rabia's lived wisdom. Building intentional community around new parents—whether family, friends, or spiritual groups—mirrors Rabia's model of interconnected belonging. This approach reduces parental isolation and burnout while giving infants the gift of multiple loving witnesses to their existence. Children raised in such networks develop stronger social capacities and broader sense of belonging, foundational to psychological health.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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