It feels strange trying to chart a course and build a declaration of social precepts and goals for a people with no name. Father Donovan and myself, see that this vacancy in the identification of ourselves, is somewhat non-conducive to Our sense of unity. It is a startling missing piece in the mosaic of Us.

We have no problem, the Irish and Spaniards, in referring to ourselves as We and Us. But We are not entirely comfortable with this ambiguous state of affairs and this gets expressed as little silences and raised eyebrows…little “tells” from Our collective sub-consciousness’. Father Donovan feels that it would be a courtesy to bring this dilemma out into the open, so that our collective minds can come up with a solution of a good word or phrase that appeals and is equitable to all. We will do this today at the special discussion meeting, inspired by the news of strangers being near.

Meanwhile, Father Donovan and I are leaving the space open in our attempt to write the “Document of Citizen/Leader Relationships”, that everyone is waiting to see. This paper is not intended as a final draft, by any means, but as a harmonization of everyone’s feelings and ideas, including their “Best of the Best” choice, the learned priest himself.
What we have roughed out, some points to consider, so far, is as follows:

“The …(Our Name when we get one)…Document of Citizen Leader Relationships and Responsibilities to Each Other”

Points of consideration:

(1) We all are responsible to and for each other and the “Golden Rule” is Our precept guideline in this belief.

(2) We all want to be treated fairly and equitably within our “highest” understandings of these ideas.

(3) Our “leaders” are recognized as the “best of the best”, as well as being “of” and “for” us. These terms to be considered and defined to a People’s majority satisfaction.

(4) Our “leaders” are a reflection of Us and it will be their responsibility to be this reflection with as little blemish as possible, within Human abilities. This will be especially true in the areas of moral and ethical conscience, as opposed to possible “mass emotional activity” that may become out of balance with the best moral and ethical positions and potentials of the People.

(5) Our “Leaders” will not decide for Us, but with Us…as mentors and guides…with Our best interests always in their hearts and minds.

(6) It is the duty of the People to help the leaders to fullfill the above obligations and responsibilities.

(7) It is the duty and social responsibility of the People to decide and act upon, what is best for themselves as individuals and as community members. The People, as responsible individuals and community members, will not allow their leaders to decide anything about the society they are. This is the task of everyone and any individual’s failure to do so is the beginning of social error and potential alienation from his or her society. Every decision will be considered and voted upon by every member of the community.


Each above point of discussion will be addressed, discussed and voted upon, before it becomes “documented” and established as part of Our social foundation.

Well, that is what we have to begin this with. It should be enough to get this started. I hope we can make some progress on this today.

The “stranger” issue seems to be what’s mostly on everyone’s minds. Maybe we can deal with both today. Most of us are willing to wait and see what MacJon and Treeana brings to the table when they come. A few have mentioned that we should send a “search party”, but this idea hasn’t “caught on” yet. Kerry strongly advises against this course of action.
See you in the Town Hall.

Shane Urchurdan the “Voice” of Father Donovan