Unit hopefuls

Hopefuls are members of the unit still working toward self-realization that makes them a ranger. As often as they can, hopefuls will wear their earth pendant:

A hopeful's earth pendant

white braid: darkens with sweat and dirt as the hopeful progresses outer circle: the cyclical tendency of nature metal of the circle: partially reflective like a mirror, symbolizing introspection, but not enough for a clear picture, symbolizing the search for constant betterment copper wire: fire silver string on the inside: the thread that binds mortals together green floss: the four elements spring thread: the four pillars that the Rangers demonstrate (integrity, perseverance, awareness, reflection)

How does someone become a hopeful?

There are two ways: wait until you are asked by one of the Rangers to join, or tell a hopeful or a ranger of the unit that you wish to join. Word will pass to other members, and you will be considered with regards to the four pillars, dedication to Dagorhir and your chapter, and your mind for your community. The unit must be absolutely certain of your character (not your persona, but character) and that there is a base to build on before you join.

What is expected from hopefuls?

Hopefuls are not to be thought of as squires as to a knight. The only things that are required of a hopeful are to wear the earth pendant as often as possible, adopt our ideology, and work toward bettering themselves and their surroundings, in whatever respect 'betterment' applies. Adopting the Rangers' ideology and thus this sense of responsibility develops into a wide variety of action. For example:
• service in their community and to their chapter/unit
• developing their persona, examining how the good parts can crossover to the modern world
• assuming and following stereotypes as little as possible
• be able to defend their morals and beliefs credibly
• a good fighter and a better friend
• contributing positively to the Dagorhir atmosphere
There is no belt sash, no required camping or allegiances, no superior to give periodic reports to. As was mentioned, these 'requirements' are based on the idea that hopefuls and rangers will be responsible enough to act on their own account, without constant badgering or promise of reward.

When this happens, it is usually the sign of a milestone, in that the hopeful has worn it constantly, and put him/herself through tests and daily toil. To prove this, the hopeful designs a challenge, as a formal test, such as:
• coordinating a continuing Highway clean up program, holding a blood drive (testing organization & initiative)
• sparring, either a certain amount, with/against a certain style, in a certain amount of time, involving certain handicaps (testing endurance, skill, or concentration)
• conclusive examination of character and/or persona, preferrably spoken but written for those not in attendance (testing reflection, elevation of thought, and truth)
• leading a unit/army through a series of battles (testing leadership, vision, and/or knowledge of tactics)
These challenges are analyzed by their hopefuls and are not seen as passed or failed, but completed. They are meant as teaching tools, to show the hopeful how far they have come in the time from when they last renewed their earth pendant. Hopefuls are encouraged to advertise their challenges so their friends and peers may help them on their path to ranger.

Please see the rangers' page for this answer.

Name	Chapter/Unit	Location	Contact	Designations
Sirilay, Innaniel	Efoloma Isemoo	Northern IL	sirilay@dagorhir.com	Founder, ambassador, webmaster
Frothgar	Taurendor/Rogin	New Jersey	frothgar4600@yahoo.com
Lenwé Telrúnya	Pahmoten Loyal	Central IL	N/A
Zeffer	Kingdom of Elzwayr	Puerto Rico	N/A
Nemo of Calh	Taurendor/Rogin	Pennsylvania	lanana01@gettysburg.edu

Contact the webmaster