After fleeing their homes from the devastating
eruption of Mt. Darvus in
Anvil, the folks that came to seek shelter and settle in the deep Nurbotu scar had nothing but their names. Following such a traumatic uprooting, the
Nurbotu Scarfolk relish in their fresh start by leaving old traditions behind and embracing their self expression, equality, and new ways of life.
When the Nurbotu Scarfolk celebrate birthdays, they don’t make an unnecessary fuss of things. They are
grateful for their lives and for the life of the celebrated individual but they don’t
party like the city folk do with excessive eating and useless ornaments.
The rule of two gifts
Upon a birthday, the individual receives only two gifts. The first is a desired gift, one that they have always wanted and that will bring them joy
(like a brand new duneboard). The second gift is something that they need
(but don’t necessarily want). In later years this is usually something that will help them with their profession, like high quality tools or a pack mule to take their trade on the road, but in teenage years it might be a big hint for the person to get their act together - like receiving a shaving razor if they look unkempt.
The Rule of Two brings the scarfolk closer together as a community, as it means that they must talk among friendship and family groups in order to come together with the perfect gifts. This method means that rather than receiving cheap low quality trinkets, the community can chip in together to provide a gift of quality that could last a lifetime.
It teaches better gratitude from a young age, and reduces envy of others receiving more presents. The gifts become much more meaningful, and the gratitude is spread to all in the community and not just the single gift-giver.
Simo
I love this tradition. I might decide to implement it at home if it wasn't for the fact that I would face the rage of both child and grandparents :P