The patron–client relationship always starts with a gift, and we know that there is no such thing as a free gift. If someone gives us a gift, then we are obliged to give something or do something in return. The gift giver becomes the patron of the gift receiver, who becomes the client.

My hope is that as we develop an understanding of our spiritual reality, and seek ever greater levels of community and an economy based on sharing, our ancient primal need to amass and obtain at all costs will be replaced with that other primal need: to lend, give, sacrifice, and collaborate.