[Glaslyn] Steppes service recognition given at Warlord

[Duncan Hepburn]

A lone tree cannot stand against the elements as well as a forest,
where intertwined roots provide support and strength between the
individual trees. So it is with our barony. In harsh weather (Steppes
Warlord *always* qualifies), the absence of those no longer with us
becomes apparent. The contributions of those who have passed, and the
support they provided to the group, remain vivid in our memory. We as
a group are weakened by their absence.

Names were shouted out during Court, in memory of their lives and in
thanks for their service to the Barony:

HL Vincenzo Cellini, Oak of the Steppes... who was so very gifted in
the arts, and shared his talents selflessly with the barony.
David Falvy Falconer, who was instrumental in the founding and growth
of our canton of Lindenwood.

Forests like the Steppes do go on. When a tree falls, the canopy opens
and light shines on saplings that will grow tall with strong branches
and fill in the ranks. The roots underneath the forest that is the
Steppes will strengthen anew.

Congratulations to Baroness Honour du Bois and Lady Elec inghean
Sheain, newest Companions to the Order of the Oak of the Steppes.
Thank you for everything you have done for the barony, and for
everything that you will do for us in the future. Most frequently
heard comment when asked who the new Oaks were was "Of course!"

Congratulations to House Crimson Blades on their being awarded Acorns
of the Steppes, for their ownership of hospitality (waterbearing) in
the Steppes, as well as their diving in and helping with arts,
service, and martial activities.... as well as being an all around
righteous bunch of folks.

And in such a strong forest, the importance of elder oaks cannot be
missed. With the strongest branches and deepest roots, they act as
anchors, becoming one of the cores of the forest. Acorns bud and
become saplings in the nutrients of wisdom they freely give. Younger
oaks grow faster at their feet, shielded from harsher times by their
strong boughs and shown examples of what it is to be an Oak in the
presence of such solid fixtures of the forest.

Congratulations to Mistress Kalida Aristana and Honorable Lady Saqra
al-Kudzi for being awarded the Star of Merit. Your years of service,
(from what must have been infancy) have not only made our Steppes
forest stronger, but have increased the glory of our Kingdom. Your
generosity and continued inspiration provide an example for us all to
follow.

I cannot write words such as these without being overcome by emotion.
It is it's people that is the  Barony's greatest treasure. Genevieve
and I count our blessings that we have been given the opportunity to
act as it's stewards. Being able to call this group family is what
gives us the strength to serve as Baron and Baroness, and we thank you
all.

Baron Duncan Hepburn

I wasn't born in the Steppes, but I got here as fast as I could. =)