One year ago today, Taben Rael was introduced to the world.
The house that has stood since 1770 — through war, through famine, through the rise and fall of empires — opened its modern record. In that time many have come, and few have gone. The monastery remains what it has always been: a place of discipline, correction, spiritual growth, and the forming of the inward man.
Today the entire house gathered in the Cathedral.
The sons of every race and nation entered in silver briefs and silver tank tops. The Arms of Taben stood in gold. The prisoners from the Corridor of Refinement were brought forward. Mar-Mar, the eldest among them, stood restrained and centered to the left.
When the Bishop rose and walked to the podium in his full gold-and-silver vestments, every son stood and clapped in gratitude and honor.
Then the Bishop spoke:
“Today, one year ago, Taben Rael was introduced to the world. Many have come, and few have gone. Taben Rael is a martyr for discipline, correction, spiritual growth, and mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
We must understand that it is not all about the rod or the paddle. It is what happens after the ritual. We do not function on illusions and folklore; we are led by God and His laws. Some in the outside world have forgotten that, but we, my children, carry the law and obey the law.
More than half of you have been victims of the streets and have been under the influence of drugs and alcohol, sex, and money. Yes! And many of you refuse to change.
But as always, we will continue on and never give up on them or any of you. The flesh is weak, but your spirit must stay strong. The mind wanders, but your soul must stay on the path. So we discipline the flesh, and we mold the mind.
Taben Rael has stood since 1770, and the Fraternity of Discipline Matters has stood alongside. Today we celebrate! We will eat and drink and be merry! Today is Mark! Today we celebrate! All classes will be canceled…”
The Cathedral answered with smiles, quiet laughter, and the clear relief of men who understood the weight of the day.
Sequel Tag
After the formal observance, the Paddle of Refinement was brought forward.
RayRay, Darrell, and David stood in silver and spoke for the house:
RayRay: “Stay tuned to Taben Rael for another great year of discipline.”
Darrell: “Discipline still Matters.”
David: “The sting of Refinement brings it all together.”
www.disciplinematters.net
Taben Rael remains.
The rod remains.
The work continues.
One Year Under the Rod
Discipline Matters
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