"May we be saluted as we stand brave and tall.
For we do not smile into the face of danger
though we brace ready for the brawl"
In a humble home huddled the parents of a young lad who feared he may never return for being lost to the world. When suddenly the door opens as he enters the room. His clothes are in disarray. Blood trails his head down unto his face and arms. His eyes piercing triumphantly_ about his neck a woman's scarf.
His father being startled raised his hand for silence. Slowly he stands to give his son his undivided attention. Clearing his throat the son said, "I now walk the path of Kings, father." "No longer am I a child."
He removes the scarf from around his neck to offer his mother. "Father!" he continues..."I am beaten, bruised, and battered. My blood runs from my body. I barely have the strength to stand my ground, Yet all who crossed my path saluted me and cleared my way." "Father, I fought a big man today in defense of a young woman. He was twice my size and statue. Yet, with all my might I fought him. He laughed as he beat me continuously to the ground. I did not give up, father! I fought until I could not raise my head or lift a finger. I thought to myself {I have failed her} and he would continue to harm her. But he himself grew tired and went his way. I could not see father, because my blood filled my face, but I felt someone nearby.
As I tried to right myself and wipe the blood from my face, the young woman was there with a bright smile. And in her out-stretched hands was this scarf. I took the scarf in bewilderment and held it awkwardly when an old man came to me and as he saluted me he said "please allow me to be the first to greet one so young who walks the "Path of Kings"."
His mother, after examining the scarf begins to fold it, then gently places it upon the "Shelf of Remembrance" while his father, too proud to speak, salutes his son in honor.
{A boy becomes a man whenever the thoughts in his head compels him to take a stand}
Customs to rekindle __________________________________
