Wanted to extend my congratulations to the Emerald Hills' newest knight - Sir Elder Vermilion, knight of the Crown!
Sir Elder Vermilion,
Been a long road my friend, but ya stuck it out and have served the kingdom well with perseverance. You asked me about knightly advice moments before you were belted. Here goes.
The belt doesn't change you, brother. It's not some sort of magic bullet that is supposed to wipe away the trials and tribulations of being an Amtgarder, let alone a dreamer who has a vested interest in the Dream through years of service; both in the noticed and thankless aspects of it all. It won't guarantee that you'll be loved/hated more or less by folks. People who know you and your dedication, will look to you for direction and inspiration. The youngest Dreamers will be watching you, gleaning and compiling their opinions on what this mythic white belt represents.
The white belt shouldn't make you a better person. Shouldn't make you want to give, invest, or teach more. It shouldn't cause you to clean up you act or aspire to some lofty standard. These are things that you bring to the table way before receiving your very first award and should burn bright in your spirit the night that white belt is draped around your waist.
We should all aspire to leave a positive and beneficial legacy for those yet to come, and we should be the Dreamers that those before us could have only dreamt of becoming.
Your day will come when you cross paths with the next potential Dreamer that will carry on your belted line's honor. Choose wisely and guide them well, it'll be the grandest contribution you'll ever make to Amtgard.
So remember, brother: the white belt does not change you, you change the while belt. Make that change an everlasting positive influence on all of your circles past, present, and still to come.
Much love, Sutra Bahuas
_________________ The general who advances without seeking fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do service for his sovereign, is the jewel of his kingdom. -Sun Wu
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