The Kith and The Kin
Rest in peace, "kith and kin"
One of the most precious gifts that my parents provided for me was a family home. We moved in when I was around 3 years old, and they still live there today. When I moved out, I missed home, and eventually took comfort in a broadened understanding of home. One day I told my mother that her presence was “home” to me. The family home was symbolic of our “kinship”, consisting of my formative family relationships.
This is what “kin” stands for in “kith and kin”. What about “kith”?
“Kith and kin” is an Old English phrase dating back to 1821. An alternate form is “kith and kindred”. It names others in a way that seeks to build connections. Having formed family relationships can be helpful but does not guarantee that relationships will naturally form in the future. New relationships form through steadfast practice and adherence to community rules. “Kith” relationships are more precious than family relationships, for they reflect the work of practice and willing submission to the rules that a community of people together.
This is what my business, Kith + Kin Law Practice, was named after. Was.
After a couple rounds of shots fired after that name, it has to go. Farewell to the name, but may God grant that it become a living reality, even here on this side of heaven, for His glory.