The stick houses are very similar to the dynamics of the group on this  trip.  we are a whole bunch of sticks every one is different and when we all pull together we join to create a beautiful structure. but if a big gust of wind or wave crashes or stick house crumbles.  There is nothing holding us together other than our common goal, to get to Canada. It is unfortunate because we spend all our time building our stick houses, (the mentality of the group)  as our bonds grew our houses would get bigger and more intricate.  But there is no defense to the winds or the waves that would wash away all our hard work.  And Tension would build until some one would place the first stick and then another and slowly another house builds.  The sticks are laid more carefully, built to withstand the stresses of the Trip and the environment.