I think it needs to be made mention of that though Togashin and I are not always on friendly terms, that I indeed trust his honor -- and if he said it was an accident, then it was. Whatever his misplaced ire may be outside of battle, within battle he has shown that he can indeed make intelligent choices and act with respect and dignity.
That same evening, within the necormancer's cave, Togashin and I found ourselves fighting side by side, and I can honestly say that I was quite proud of us both that evening. We worked together well, and when aid was needed, the other provided. We put aside our personal differences of opinion and did what needed to be done -- and I would like to both thank and commend him. When I needed his aid, all I needed to do was call his name and he was by my side, offering what assistance he could. That, in my eyes, shows a true mark of character.
So thank you, Togashin.
I oftentimes think that we could all afford more to put aside our personal differences and problems and just do the work. I think many would find how rewarding a feeling it can be. Youth is no excuse for an inability to act responsibly. The mark of a true student is his or her ability to learn from every situation. There are lessons everywhere, and though I am fortunate enough to have had lengthy, lengthy years, I think that taking even that for granted would be unwise. One will never learn all there is to know, and though Lyddia and I do not always see eye to eye, I do admire her ability to make decisions, even when the concequences can be great. I hope to see her take more responsibility for the repercussions of her decisions, and I think her most recent words on the subject are a testament to her work on that facet of herself as well. As such, I applaud her humility and maturity in what could be a difficult situation.
I will only urge her to continue her growth and maintain her current track -- and not remark upon it further. I am sure she knows if she wishes my opinion, she has only to ask -- but I will not offer it freely in such a public forum. She cannot -- nay, no one would I think -- honestly hear those who attack her, no matter how right or good they may feel their intentions are. This is not the place nor the way to offer your opinions to or about Lyddia. Do so privately if you must -- do not make a spectacle. Doing this in front of others does not seek to guide her, but simply to make a show of "calling her out" and belittling her. That is not what she needs; no one deserves that. If you want to see change, if you think she has misstepped, then you must be mature -- and you must speak to her privately, and you must choose your words and tones carefully. Not because of repercussion, but simply because at some point, being accusatory loses its flair, and the mind tunes it out. Being dramatic is not the way to find change. Being rational is. I too would be quite defensive if such accusations were brought up in front of all to see and make note of -- Lyddia did not ask to be put on display for your amusement, retribution, or accusation. She has, however acted with dignity and grace in response to all that has been said.
Well done, Lyddia.
There is a saying: "Be the change you wish to see in the world."
Well, I will narrow it down for you.
"Be the change you wish to see in Briarpass."
Make that happen, friends, and the world will fall into line eventually. It is destined to happen.
But destiny is not given, it is gained. I'd say earned, even.
Consider with yourselves honestly -- what kind of destiny have you
earned? Do you deserve all you have? Honor begets honor. Good begets good. Respect begets respect.
What sort of change would you like to see?
I have spoken of many changes I wish to see. One is maturity. So I have put away my childish things and have taken up my rightful adult mantle. I would say that it has seen much return since I decided to don it. I could not avoid my destiny -- so I have embraced it.
That does not mean I do not recall how to have fun.
It just means I know fun's time and place. I know that life is a great tapestry -- all threads of fate are woven together -- intermingled for all of time to see and appreciate, whatever their worth. Be a worthwhile piece of the tapestry, make your threads worth admiration, rather than disgust.
Rather than fling insults, I would like to see some honest answers as to which changes you wish to see in the realm of Briarpass. I'd imagine the good Sherriff would probably like to hear this too.
Just remember to not be personal, but to of course be honest.
Honesty is a sharp knife, but it does not need to be wielded as such. It can be very deft. I urge you to try your hand at this use of it, rather than as a wicked and cruel tool. Choose your words carefully. Think hard upon them.
You've got some time, and besides -- this is all a dream anyhow. The possiblities are what you make them.
