I love having company over. I so rarely get to see the people I consider my tribe, so it was a real treat to have friends visit. We had a lot of fun in Alex Bay and Watertown, but we mostly stayed home for chatting, snacking, and playing copious amounts of games. If only there had been more time for more fun.
Having guests is always a test of virtue. I try my best and take pride in being a hospitable hostess. I love to cook fresh meals and share my drink. Hospitality aside, my piety to the Kindreds is also tested.
They are never far from my mind to begin with, and I pray a lot - especially before eating and while traveling. Yet when people share my home, my routine is always a bit disrupted. (Truthfully, it already was thanks to my infernal, cough-inducing allergies...) My devotionals are shortened because I need to be a good hostess and it is too loud for me to meditate. I am proud of myself for getting up and doing my full, formal ritual yesterday, but even that was not as usual because of my need to assist my guests. I felt self-conscious chanting, as well. I found myself whispering the songs. It was not a very powerful ritual but I am glad to have done it. I like showing the Kindreds that I care, and I think they understand the strained ritual when I so rarely entertain.
I believe that ritual, trance, and meditation aren't the only ways that we show honor to the Kindreds. When we find joy with our tribe, treat others with love and respect, and celebrate life - even in a non-religious context - the Kindreds are there. Strengthening bonds with the tribe is just as important as ritual on my Druidic path.
( For My LJ Friends: http://adfcatprints.blogspot.com/ )
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