We tend toward one of two groups: the smorgasbord samplers or the full meal dealers.

The smorgasbord samplers are the internationally minded post moderns. They are turned off by the brutality and slaughter of competing groups. They believe good is found in all cultures.

They have foresworn the close associations of past communities. They prefer to choose from a variety: one may be an atheist and a Buddhist. Or a Catholic married to a Jew whose child follows an Indian holy man. If one appreciates all cultures, one is less likely to condone ethnic/religious bloodletting, they say.

The full meal dealers find meaning in a long term community dedicated to common purposes: shared religious faith, social justice, meeting the needs of vulnerable people, for example. They crave long term commitments.

In truth, the two camps can learn from each other. The smorgasbord samplers need the purpose and commitment of the full meal dealers. The full meal dealers need the empathy and humility of the smorgasbord samplers.