Humans...toys of the gods!

 "Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller was indeed an epic tale.  It took us out of our comfort zone as we explored topics we have yet to encounter, namely homosexuality.  While some among us wished for more graphic depictions of Patroclus and Achilles love affair, I think we all agreed Madeline Miller, despite her inferior gender, can spin a tale with the best of them!

We had epic expectations for this council as we planned our trip to St. Marys, PA to suckle the eternal tap at Straub Brewery, head to Gabler's Knob camp, partake in a drive to rustle up some deer, consume Greek stew, and sit by the fire for lively discussion.  We planned to wake Sunday and head to Denny's Beer Barrel pub to participate in the gut buster burger challenge before heading home.  We even had a celebrity MOP member in Uncle Kenny Gabler!  Unfortunately, we did not offer adequate sacrifices to the gods and our plans went awry as Brother L.T. E.R. Airy's back went out, Brother Rode contracted Covid, my family acquired some sort of plague, and I injured my hip.  Wisely, we decided to anger the gods no further and not sail to St. Marys.  Brother Pompous and Uncle Kenny were able to make it to camp, do some hunting, and have a mini council meeting while the rest of us stayed behind and enjoyed a small gathering at my house.  

We enjoyed a well prepared feast by my barefooted wife complete with roasted feta, olives, sundried tomatoes, and olive oil over crusted bread as an appetizer and a traditional Greek lamb stew (Youvetsi) for dinner.  We recited the Creed, rubbed Buddha's belly, and sat around a fire as McPageturner, Rode, and Papel competed to see who could arouse their Trojan (condom) quickest.  We considered new membership for a worthy coxcomb, elevating his status to MOP if he completes to be determined initiation procedures.  We discussed the book in depth.  All of this while enjoying plenty of bourbon!  

At the end of the night, the sacred container was passed to Brother Rode in preparations for his book choice and council proceedings.  We departed with excitement at deliberating initiation trials for new membership and possible side councils prior to Brother Rode's in order to develop official membership proceedings.  Now we wait in eager anticipation for brother Rode's instructions as we all contemplate initiation trials…