Protocols & Rituals

Protocols & Rituals

Protocol

Definition:

1. [n] code of correct conduct; 2. [n] forms of ceremony and etiquette observed by diplomats and heads of state

How important is protocol in a M/s relationship? When pondering protocol I could only come to the following thought , Protocol (at least to me) is a cornerstone of a M/s relationship. Now, this statement is not to take away from the notions of "The Calling" or a "desire to serve" or Dominate. But without the tools of protocol there would certainly be a lack of direction and hierarchy. I would think whether a household is run with the strictest of guidelines or a more laid back approach, protocol is the foundation to build upon.

As mentioned in the above definition, protocol is a code of conduct. In the case of M/s, protocol allows for a slave to have something to reach for, a sense of accomplishment, if you will - daily obtainable goals.

Protocols can also provide stability and calm, knowledge of what conduct and presentation is expected of them. This can eliminate a lot of stress for both the slave and most importantly, the Master. With such goals and directions placed upon them, it allows for structure and provides a comprehensive guide on how the slave is expected to live and behave.

Protocol can also give a master the necessary tools to work and mold their slave. Getting a slave into the groove of following protocol can assist in development for both the Master and the slave.

I thought I would take a moment to list some protocols in my M/s relationship and what they mean to me.

Daily check in - I use this for the obvious reason, to check up on barb. But this protocol is also used to help structure her day. By knowing where she's at or a time of arrival, I can further plan her day.

Permissions: to stand, sit, eat, use furniture etc. These protocols are tools of control, they are also reminders of the hierarchy.

Heeling to my left - Allows me to always know where barb is. I never need to look around for her. I know where she is and she knows where to be.

These protocols are a building block of the relationship and enforce the hierarchy.

Another point to make about protocol is it needs to be manageable. In my household, protocol is considerate of health issues. I don't believe protocols or standing orders should be an unobtainable goal, nor should they go beyond the physical limitations of a slave. (Which is not to say that they are not difficult or demanding.) I don't like to use a mind fuck protocol. I want what I want and I prefer to keep it simple. Protocols need to be enforced but they need to be enforceable. I try to not have so many protocols or standing orders that I myself can't keep track of them. To lose track of protocol and standing orders could lead to losing control, respect and obedience.

Rituals

1. A ceremonial act or a series of such acts.

2. A detailed method of procedure faithfully or regularly followed

3. A state or condition characterized by the presence of established procedure or routine.

I can't say that I have a lot of rituals. I don't like to have life clogged with formal rituals, but I do find rituals to be important. There's one particular ritual that I use in my household that I would like to talk about. It's called "The Two Hour Rule". Anytime barb is separated from me for two or more hours she is to kneel before me when she is back in my company. This ritual is primarily designed for the work day, though it works for any reason we are apart for two or more hours. I utilize this ritual for the purpose of grounding. Even though our relationship is a 24/7 M/s relationship, the trials and tribulations of the outside/vanilla world can certainly have a tendency to let the M/s focus stray.

There are so many distractions that can temporarily take away from our M/s lifestyles. For example, the demands of ones occupation, long lines (everywhere), traffic, crowded gyms, tele-marketers, lost TV remotes, tax preparation and an overall cut throat society that is not looking out for the inner peace that my M/s life gives me. The Two Hour Rule is in effect for both of us. When barb kneels before me it ensures that she's focused on me! (And it looks damn good too!) It's a tool that allows for both of us to put aside all those distractions of the outside world. I find this ritual to be excellent source to ground and center us. It's important to get back "home". In this case home means the full M/s state that I desire. I like to use rituals in a positive way. This is one example.

Yes, it's audience participation time again. I would love to hear other rituals that are enforced or obeyed.