I have devoted a few pages to advice for newcomers and here's some for the rest of us.  Stranger in our Land was published in The Flames of The Dragon previously and reprinted 2012

Strangers in our Land

As the trade routes open, strange people will be seen abroad in the land of An Tir.  Some, their clothing and manner of speech strange to us, will only visit for a short time.  Others may decide to settle and adopt our ways.  Whether they stay only briefly or settle permanently, treat them honorably with kindness and chivalry. 

Talk to new people at meetings and classes.  Many people hesitant around strangers (and who's stranger than us) do better if you approach them first.  Include newcomers in conversations when possible.  Don't forget to introduce yourself and others to the newcomer. 

Offer to answer questions.  An answer more than 'yes' or 'no' will lead to other questions.  Also, answer the unasked question.  New people can be overwhelmed and not know what to ask first.  A comment about the action or a question directed to your new friend can start a conversation and a lasting friendship.  If you can't answer a question or don't feel comfortable answering, introduce the newcomer to someone who can.  Guild heads and other Baronial officers are good references.

Invite newcomers to meetings, events or even your own home.  Offer to take them with you to meetings and events or help find them a ride.  Share your table at the feast with them.  (You could use a new food taster, couldn't you?)

Help newcomers to acquire the things they need to enjoy their new world.  Refer them to the Gold Key to borrow items.  (Donate garb, feast gear or camping equipment to the Gold Key to help.) Share the secrets of second hand shopping and bartering.  Suggest or teach classes for newcomers in the basics and other topics.  Don't forget the Baronial library.

Attend and help out at newcomer's nights, classes and demos.  You may not be a learned scholar or a master sword maker, but you will usually know more about these topics than the person new to the Known World.  Your insights on which events to attend or basic garb may be just the help someone needs.

Remember you have a duty to King and Country as well as to the newcomer.  Always remember you are the society to the modern or neophyte.  If you are chivalrous and friendly, that is what they will remember.  If you talk or behave in a dishonorable way that will remain the impression they have of the Society and the Dream.  Never speak ill of the living or the dead, it will come back to haunt you. 

Be patient with the newbie.  In time, they will become your comrades in arms, your fellow scholars and your family.  Remember you were once a stranger in a strange land too.

Copyright 2001and 2002 by L.J.Henson aka HL Rycheza z Polska.  Posted receipt book of Rycheza z Polska February 2013

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