[MR] Re: Secrecy

[Morag Polaski]

Mistress Caitlyn wrote:

>Why is it a good thing not to let the candidate know?
> I've listened to folks from other kingdoms describing
>how they were able to plan for and anticipate their
>Laurel ceremonies.  I don't understand the rationale for
>Atlantia's tradition of secrecy, especially given the
>drawbacks.

Please allow me to add my two cents worth on this topic.
 I think for the Peerages, candidates should be given
vigils, accompanied by a "waiting period" (for lack of a
better term) of a month or so.  For example, Their
Majesties could call together the Order of the Laurel at
Their Court at Fall University (October), announce Their
intention to elevate Lord Jim at Their Court at Crown
Tourney (November) or Kingdom Twelfth Night (January).
 This allows the candidate sufficent time to plan the
ceremony *they* want, ensure that specific people are
present and the like.  In my opinion, an elevation to the
Peerage is much like planning a wedding.  For the Kingdom
orders of merit, where there is no "ceremony" as well as
other awards, I'm all for letting the candidate be
surprised, but letting a few well chosen people in on the
secret.  As a landed baroness, I tried to ensure that the
significant other or a friend of the recipient of any
award I gave knew that the recipient needed to be at court
that day, even if I didn't give a reason.  I attempted to
do the same for any Royal Courts held in my barony.  I
still remember the feeling when I got my AoA, and Purple
Fret in the Middle.  The surprise and elation was worth
the not knowing.  When I received things I knew about, the
feelings were not as intense.

Again, simply my opinions.
In Service,
Baroness Olwen de Montgomery