Re: S.C.A. Moral Attraciveness

[Aelfgar GreySeas <aelfgar@access.digex.net>]

Poster: Aelfgar GreySeas <aelfgar@access.digex.net>

To Lord Niall, and others who heard his cry,
Lord Aelfgar GreySeas sends greetings.

Lord Niall,

   I read your post with sympathy, and remembrance. On first contact with
the SCA, one is often so taken by the idea of people brought together by
a shared desire for an honorable, courteous society, it's easy to forget
that any large group of people is a mixed bag, and motives and ideals vary
widely. When first confronted with evidence that some of our fellows are
not to be trusted, a real letdown can occur.

   There is no solution to the problems you cite. People will be people,
for all we wish to make them (and ourselves) angels instead. But despite
this, be of good cheer, and remember this - despite the years of thefts,
ugly politics, bitter quarrels, and other uglinesses of which this society
is capable, we still strive. And in that striving is our hope, and our
victory.

   I do not believe that the Society as a whole will, or can be, honorable
or courteous. These are qualities of individuals, not groups. But, with 
luck, at any given moment most of the folks around you will at least be
trying.

   We can all try to affect that portion of the world which is within our
reach, and we must protect ourselves from that portion of the world which
is beyond it. If you move in honor, and gently, those around you will be
encouraged to move likewise. Find people whose view of proper behavior is
compatible with your own, and enrich yourself with their company, and 
them with yours, and your time with the SCA will be enhanced.

   Your servant,

   Aelfgar
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