The Eight Year Celebration
When one completes their eighth year of life, it is time for a grand celebration, A child of this age is considered to be old enough to know right from wrong, and to begin a serious commitment to live appropriately. It is obvious of course that an eight year old isn't very wise, or very reasonable, and certainly not mature, but they can generally tell if something is good or not.
The Second Naming takes place on or shortly after a child's eighth birthday.
In addition to the second naming, many additional traditions have sprung up to make this a day to remember for both the child and their family. These celebrations can vary widely from community to community and from country to county.
In Spinify Village the newly named child is given presents that show his or her advancement in the eyes of the community. They may receive their first knife, a child sized bow or carved staff. New clothes, suitable for someone on the way to a wise maturity are presented. The child is offered an abundance of foodstuffs, treats rare on other days. Some of this is as a test, to see if they are yet wise enough to avoid making themselves sick via overindulgence.
This and other subtle tests take place throughout the day. They aren't discussed with the birthday child so much as they are observed by the adults and older children in the community as a measure and guide for additional teaching. So far as the child is concerned it's just a wonderful day full of games, food, presents, and a certain amount of solemn ceremony.
Sometimes the child is asked what sort of profession or skill they wish to begin learning. This isn't an official apprenticeship, but it begins the process of allowing the child to learn many things and determine what most enriches their life.
At the end of the day, a great bonfire is lit, and the child throws into it something that represents both their leaving babyhood and their commitment to becoming a person of worth.
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