[Ansteorra-MiddleEastern] Hello out there!

[mtucker at airmail.net]

[Kerra:]
> Salaam!
>
> So, as we kick off this organization spree...
>
> How many of you think forming a kingdom guild is a good idea? Why?
> If you are opposed, why?
> I look forward to hearing commentary!
>
> Kind Regards,
> Sana bint Kieran al Kerra (called 'Kerra')
> Aka HL Clara von Ulm


[Adria:]
> Greetings,
>
> Adria Lorelle here from the Barony of the Eldern Hills. This is my
> opinion, I believe a guild would be a wonderful support group. I also
> believe it could be a great way to share information about dancing,
> period garb, and culture. This info and friendship is hard to come by.
> What we have to try and prevent is the politics and backstabbing.
>
> FYI at Samhain in October, Eldern is planning a halfa (indoor hafla).  I
> won't be able to attend the event down South, but it sounds like it will
> be a wonderful time.
>
> Maya to your own beat,
> Adria
>

I agree with Adria. A guild could be a great way to focus and share
information about Middle Eastern dance (and Middle Eastern studies in
general). It could be a vehicle for shaping the development of this art in
Ansteorra, and helping to set common goals for everyone to strive towards.
And it could be a support group for those starting out, or those looking
for ways to share what they've learned.

I've also seen guilds be formed that became bogged down by folks who were
more concerned with what political "power" they imagined they held, than
they were with advancing the art they represented.

(I put "power" in quotes, because after all how much power is there in an
imaginary guild within an imaginary Kingdom within an imaginary Medieval
society? How much special treatment do you get at the bank because you can
put fancy-sounding letters after your imaginary name? I know that *I*
haven't received any... in fact, if they knew what I was up to on
weekends, I might get some special treatment... *very* special... <smile>)

So... yeah! A guild could be a Good Thing. Just leave out the politics if
you can. :-)

Michael Silverhands