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Chapter 6 Summary
Consolidation (1970–1980)
The author’s dream of creating an alternative society is tempered by the lessons learned from living in unsuccessful communes. The ’60s had forever changed him, and he comes to accept the notion that humanity is a mere part of the intricate web of life (a concept known as Gaia). Another highlight is the author’s epiphany; he realizes that within the simplicity of Taoism lies the profound wisdom of the ages. With this new awareness, he settles back into his social work career for the next 30 years. Resuming his lifelong quest for justice, he becomes an activist in the social workers union, whose members embark upon an arduous but successful strike. In his free time, he further pursues his spiritual path through meditation and participation in various Eastern sects.
The author recounts some breathtaking aerial brushes with death that ultimately make him a safer, more seasoned pilot. During this period, he moves into a Berkeley commune with his copilot girlfriend. He also returns to his ham-radio passion and, by the late ’80s, gains worldwide recognition among amateur-radio satellite operators.
Of the commune’s many conflicts, the two most fascinating moments arise as roommates debate whether to allow nudity in the house when guests are visiting; the other occurs when a filmmaker roommate shoots two X-rated films in their living room. More excitement is brought to the commune when the Berkeley police are called to investigate two suspicious men who follow the author home and remain parked in front of the house for an hour. The two leave after showing the police their FBI identifications. Communal life ends for the author when his girlfriend has an affair that precipitates their breakup. This loss forces him to reevaluate the viability of open relationships, and he soon concludes that monogamy may indeed be more conducive to a successful relationship.
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How Many Roads? Copyright © by Howard Sodja 2002