From birth until the child reaches seven years of age, the primary care comes from the mother. This does not mean that the father takes no part in the care of the child; however, in our matriarchal system, the love, nurture, and emotional balance of the male child take precedence over all else.

 

Not until the age of seven does the male child begin his preparation for puberty by entering MMA classes. Then, at the age of 11 or 12, he will enter Debate and Mock Trial classes. Personal finance and entrepreneurship classes may start as early as ages seven, 11, or 12, though they usually begin around ages 14 or 15.

 

Puberty is the preparation for adulthood, starting as early as 11 or 12. Adulthood officially begins at 20 years old and lasts until 50. Around the ages of 29, 30, or 31, the adult is being prepared to take responsible senior positions within the community, some as early as 25, with intermediate classes to train as instructors.

 

The Junior Elder role begins at age 50. Eldership involves taking responsibility as a community counselor, serving as a guide and historian. These functions are part of the role of an Elder, who also serves as the conflict resolution figure in the community.

 

The Senior Elder, aged 60 to above 75, enters preparation for becoming an Ancestor. Becoming an Ancestor involves a process of rituals where Senior Elders listen to the Elderhood within the community, receiving messages to take to the Ancestors about the conditions of their descendants. They inform the Ancestors of our efforts, our needs, and make requests for specific types of individuals to be sent back to address the problems we face.

 

This is Ancestor Veneration: from the cradle to the Hereafter.