Baby Mara was brought in and instantly the Meeting Hall seemed brighter and more cheerful. People craned their necks trying to catch the baby’s eyes and receive one of those warm smiles for themselves. Many did and their own countenance lit up.

The Shaman, wrapped in his official furs, stood before the child, raised his sceptre high into the air and intoned a litany. On and on he went in a language unknown by the people. Finally he seemed to reach the end and with a final wave of the sceptre he stopped and faced the people.

“This baby shall from now to the end of her days be known as Mara Goddess of the Sea” with this he turned back to the baby and spoke one last incantation. Once again he turned back towards the people. He scanned the room then nodded to the midwives. “It is time for the Blessings. Please come and sing your blessings to Mara.”

The first midwife came up, she represented North. With a husky voice she sang her blessing of how beautiful this child would be. How when she grew her smile would warm the hearts of men. On and on she sang to the cheering of the crowd.

The next came forth, she represented South. She sang of brains, of how her beauty would be matched by her intelligence. How learning would come to her and how men would be in awe at her knowledge.

The next represented East. Her song was of health. How illness would not dare trespass on her person. She would be healthy and full of vigour, energy end strength and that nothing would be beyond her reach.