[Nordskogen] Re: Regarding demos

[Kendra Lee]

With respect, I firmly believe that Maestra Giovanna’s post was not meant to be taken as “if you can’t do this, you shouldn’t come.” Rather, I believe she was sharing ideas, suggestions, and a model. Whether you choose to follow those suggestions or not is your choice. There is no doubt that each of us in the Society has different aspirations, expectations, and resources, and I staunchly support each participant’s privilege to participate in the manner of his/her choice and ability.
   
  That said, I am disappointed in the general trend I’ve seen in my 15 years of participation in the SCA. When I began, the status quo was to camouflage all modern items (except tents) as much as possible as often as possible. Now the status quo seems to accept the “naked” presence of bag chairs, soda cans, coolers, and more.
  The only way to reverse this trend in a completely voluntary Society is, of course, through education and inspiration -- at least a little of which I hope I provide at each event I attend and to each newcomer I speak with.
   
  I would fervently hope that we all share a common goal of bringing a little of the romantic medieval world to life. In theory, we are all participating in the SCA to experience “the Dream” in some way. It’s very hard to do that when your neighbor at an event has set out his or her bag chair and plastic lawn flamingo. Of course we have a sense of humor; of course we’re human; of course we like our comforts. But we can make efforts to reduce the impact of modern items at medieval recreation events -- and particularly at demonstrations to the public of what we do.
   
  All that said, there’s no reason to show up at the Caponi or any other public demo with all your gear and equipment. All you need to do is bring yourself, wear your garb, and be willing to talk to the public. Anything else you bring (projects to share, for example) is fabulous. Just leave the *nonessential* modern stuff at home -- or camouflage it really well at the demo.
   
  Think of it this way
 if you walked into a public demo, what would attract you to the SCA more: an Easy-Up shade fly, or a pavilion? a man in jeans, sneakers and “motorcross” gear, or a “knight” in a tabard and/or flashy armor? costumed people discussing the movie they saw last week, or costumed people discussing medieval activities and practices?
   
  Maestra Giovanna has shared some very worthy suggestions on how to present the SCA’s ideals to the public. Following them is your choice.
   
  - Cinniu

 		
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