July/August XIX

There has been a lot of talk lately among the populace of awards, titles, and territories, so I thought I would take it upon myself to write on an open discussed topic, Awards of Arms, or A.O.A. Simply, an A.O.A. is a rather nifty piece of paper that is presented to a qualifying person and gives that person the right to display a registered coat of arms rather than a device. This is often a fine line, but to continue…

The awarding of this document by the crown is an important step in the Society. As well as verifying your nobility, it also says a great, “Hello, we recognize you as a valuable member”. This does not mean to say that if you do not have an A.O.A. you are not valuable; these things just tend to take time. Of course, time alone does not determine your receipt. You could be in the Society for years without being given one. Why? Your deeds, behavior, willingness to help, actual help, time and effort all greatly determine your standing. Have you done anything to help the fellow members of your canton? Lately? Have you helped at your canton events, or just sat and ate? Have you fulfilled any duties you may have? Kept your promises? Have you been active at all or do you just sit and comment? One event and a dozen meetings won’t do it for you. Become noticeable. Not blatant, but do something, anything. Set yourself some goals and work for them. Of course, the worst thing you can do is as for an A.O.A. You will never get it that way. And don’t work at something just for the sake of an award. Do it because you want to. People notice, and it is up to your fellow canton members to recommend you to the King and Queen. If you give them cause to avoid you, well…

Strive to make yourself noble in everyone’s eyes and you will become noble. And your being noble benefits us all. Remember, a Kingdom, Barony, or Principality doesn’t thrive on just numbers but quality.