Eldering; the Prototype Elder; summing up

I've been looking at the set of proposed Prototype Elder Principles, and thinking about them in spare moments, and it seems to me that the set is complete as it stands, with only minor re-wordings. I've seen no other proposals for additions to the list that aren't already included in one or more of the eight principles we already have. [I'd like a proper definition for "presence," but the fact that we don't have one is no surprise; so far as I know, no proper defintion exists.] The final proposed set, therefore, looks like this to me:


1. An Elder almost always teaches by example.

2. An Elder gives advice only when it's asked for, except in dire emergencies.

3. An Elder is able to stay detached.

4. An Elder is, above all, consistent.

5. An Elder is safe to be with.

6. An Elder knows how and when to listen.

7. An Elder is compassionate.

8. An Elder has "presence."


If you have objections or proposed new items, I'd always be glad to see them; if you have questions, I'd be glad to re-open the discussion; if you can define "presence," I'd be delighted. Otherwise, I'll consider the set complete for now.

I'm very grateful for your help in getting the Eldergrammar to this stage.

Suzette