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Creating Ritual: Courtesies

© Myrrha

This is the last before the final installment in this particular topic. I realize few people attend a function with the intention to offend or annoy the other participants. However, large gatherings attract people from a larger area than local and private gatherings. Therefore, these gatherings have the potential to attract individuals from groups which have different standards and practices, and as a result, different taboos as well. So, what might be annoying to one may be standard practice to another.

Before I progress to larger gatherings, let me discuss a few courtesies that are appropriate to small gatherings in rental halls or private homes. Be nice to your hosts. Show appreciation for the hard work and effort that went into the event as well as the fun time you had. The following are things I'm sure everyone is aware of, but it can't hurt to mention it. First, don't make more work for the hosts. Trash in the appropriate receptacle; utensils, dishes, etc. to the kitchen or collection area, and no loitering at closing time. Many times in rental halls, there is an additional charge for going over time (for security personnel, etc.). Pitch in for clean up where ever possible. Don't create more work for your hosts.

Larger events usually are camping events. Not only do the recommendations in the last paragraph apply, but so also do safety precautions need to be observed. These are common sense precautions like pitching your tent in a safe manner to minimize tripping hazards, restrain pets so they don't scare other participants, make sure your fire and bug candles and tiki torches are safely contained an always monitored. Be sure your camp equipment doesn't pose a tripping hazard either. Also, mind noise levels. Not all folks are night owls and are accustomed to regular sleeping schedules. Many times carefully planned events will allow for this by creating a quiet hours area of the camp.

Finally, determine beforehand, if possible, what the camp rules and requirements are. Go out of your way to follow them as well. Implicit with paying your money to participate in the event is your agreement to the rules established by your hosts. Being a pet lover, I'm always disappointed when I can't take my big 165-pound pooch with me, but I realize that rules to exclude pets are usually justified. One primary reason is compliance with facility policies, usually. Find out what form ritual or rituals will take so you are able to blend in nicely with the program that is established.

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