Musing

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

-2C/29F, clear, crisp, Gusta investigated each fence post, new route, no walkers

they’ve been at a long time – traditions preserved – learned over generations it seemed; people in that room taught by parents who learned from theirs, hushed grandchildren too – young and old with more than threads to connect them, shared DNA – oh sure, spouses in the room witnessed it too, but it was clearly a clan-like ritual brought from the hills of Scotland – or so it seemed; magnificent venue, treasure trove of relics and heirlooms

ritual of the ages - no point trying to keep character traits hidden from view there, few of life’s situations could make it as difficult to disguise elements of style or substance, insecurity or fear; these events sort men from boys, pretenders from the genuine article

neither circus or theatre, pomp or circumstance - a place where people speak softly and laugh loudly with knowing looks, vague references to times past, a nod, a wink – personality quirks and little secrets set aside for one night – ceremonial event commands attention; what is this . . pagan chants, wiccan rituals?

only my second time – still a novice, unfamiliar with the rules, the protocol, the pace, the special deference to aged ones; trepidatiously - entering that room full of strangers, mix of first time meetings, some second time ones too, observing people in action reveals much; this is not a place for single folk – nearly everyone coupled except for widows and children - each pairing’s stories demand a program or an org-chart - maybe both

PB’s family gather this way a few times a year to celebrate birthdays of those who’ve had one since the last gathering; 4 honorees among 25 who gobbled pizza and cake . . and made me feel part of it all

they’ve been doing it for a dozen years but it felt like I was privy to a legacy centuries old

Mark Kolke
340,404
197.6

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