"Community" ((Inuyoko Mass #33))
Deoch Mass ((1/29/26)Hello, everyone. My name is Inuyoko T’Alveni. I am a Priestess of this Shrine, and a member of its clergy since deoch 53. Last double-moon, I spoke about the unique nature of the spark, and our abilities as Aislings, as well as a bit about the differences between Mundanes and us, and how they have perceived us throughout our time. Today, I’d like to once again use a work from the Library as a jumping off point for the topic of the day. That work is from a Priestess of Deoch named Maerista, written in deoch 6, titled “Community”.
There are plenty of nuggets of wisdom sprinkled throughout this work. Some of my favorites include: “Community is, above all other things, somewhere you can be yourself – a safe place where you are accepted completely as the Aisling you want to be.” and, “Once an Aisling has experienced the sensation of being completely accepted, loved and trusted, she is changed as much as when she first experienced the Aisling spark and ceased to be mundane!” Maerista goes on to talk about how we can craft community, strengthen it, and maintain it.
One thing I find interesting reading a work like this, similarly to the work we referenced last double-moon from Frist Vire, is the way that she speaks about the threats she perceived. About the way that community is threatened with fracture by listlessness, and those who pursue power endlessly above all else. It’s interesting to me, because it reminds me that throughout the time of Aislings, in every generation you hear very similar concerns and complaints. I am not necessarily suggesting it is always entirely unfounded. Regardless of your perception of the state of Temuair today, it is certainly *different*, and has been changing and reshaping itself constantly for a long time. But in spite of that, it is still possible for community to grow and flourish. I’ve witnessed it myself. In fact, over the past five deochs, as fresh faces passed through these halls and other parts of Temuair, it is one of the most consistent comments I have heard. “The community here is really special/welcoming/kind.”
That sentiment is built, piece-by-piece, by each and every one of us. And while oftentimes the state of things can seem bleak, that feeling comes from somewhere. Something is working. But it’s important that we do not take it for granted. As Maerista mentions, cracks and conflicts are inevitable when building community, and even once it has been firmly established. “When a group chooses community, it is the most incredibly liberating and peaceful experience one can imagine … [but] remember that even once you are enjoying Community in all its fullness, it is not a permanent thing. It can be lost, or stolen from you. Be constantly aware of the health of your community and friendships.” I think that is a good lesson. For many of you, it comes naturally to be mindful and aware of your friends and comrades. Every time you see someone that needs help and jump in to assist, that helps to build community. When you participate in events and Masses and classes, it helps build community. And whenever you let your spark shine, wholly and genuinely, you become a beacon for any and all who are seeking community, and honor Deoch and His gift in doing so.
Thank you all for being part of this community with me. Mass is cast.
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