Many highly social species like ants, elephants, whales, and chimpanzees value the gifts and talents of specific individuals in their groups. Animal Elders are not just the oldest; they're the most skillful at things like finding food, discerning danger, and de-escalating conflict, and their social groups thrive by giving these talented individuals clear leadership roles in the social order.

Make a regular practice of appreciating the gifts that others bring to the everyday table of our interactions: normalize this practice so it becomes second nature in the group culture, like taking sips of water. Weave a running thread of specific appreciations through ordinary meetings, conversations, and gatherings. Get people in the habit of collectively witnessing the bigger Selves that live in each one of us. This practice plants the Seeds of group resilience by fostering a multi-faceted culture of skillful collective leadership.