"The Council places great value on Free persons who work to help our city prosper. This describes any Master or Mistress who works to embody Gorean ideals, gives generously of knowledge and time to slaves and Free persons alike, visits and socializes with us in the tavern, and collaborates with us in breathing the spirit of Gor into our city. This title is given by the City Council to those of TavernMaster or TavernMistress rank in recognition of their ongoing meritorious service."So is it written in the scrolls.
I look back on these words regularly and find in them strands of thought which I believe should be important to us all.
First, they remind me that the City is a community - and that we can all play our part in sustaining and strengthening it. Many, many others contribute significantly in various ways and we all benefit. So the first part of meaning for me is: "play a full part in City life."
Second, they remind me of the importance of honour. Being Free does not mean having a licence to do just anything. And I know that what I do outweighs any "label" I may bear, as a rock outweighs a grain of sand. Hence part two is "be prepared to be judged on behaviour, not reputation."
And third, they remind me that even if some mark of merit was earned in the past, it has to be renewed over and over. Sometimes I tell slaves at their silkings "earn these silks every day" - and it seems to me the same basic principle applies just as much to a Free person. Therefore thought three: "the past is past - now only today counts."
To be Crimson Guild is not simply an empty honor or title. It is an obligation and a responsibility to bring us ever closer to the Gorean ideal and to make our city a beacon. We all join together in this goal.
Be well.
