Why I Quit the SCA: A Personal Reflection
Leaving the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) is a decision many members grapple with, and the reasons are as varied as the individuals themselves. My own departure wasn't a sudden, impulsive act but rather a culmination of several factors that, over time, eroded my enthusiasm and participation. This isn't a condemnation of the SCA as a whole – it's a personal reflection, hopefully offering insight for those considering similar choices or simply curious about the experiences of those who've left.
What is the SCA and Why Would Someone Leave?
Before diving into my reasons, let's briefly touch upon the SCA itself. For the uninitiated, the SCA is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to recreating the arts and skills of pre-17th-century Europe. It's a vibrant community focused on historical recreation, craftsmanship, combat, and social interactions. The commitment level, however, varies widely, leading to diverse experiences and ultimately, different reasons for leaving.
Was It the Time Commitment?
This is a frequently cited reason. The SCA can be incredibly time-consuming. Between attending events, crafting costumes and gear, practicing combat skills, and participating in various activities, it demands a significant investment of time and energy. For me, the escalating demands of my career and personal life made it increasingly difficult to juggle both effectively. The guilt of not fully participating began to outweigh the enjoyment I once found.
Did the Internal Politics Become a Factor?
Absolutely, for some. Like any large organization, the SCA has its internal dynamics and politics. While not universally negative, disagreements, rivalries, and power struggles can occasionally arise within kingdoms, baronies, and even individual groups. While I didn't experience overtly toxic situations, a growing sense of internal conflict and drama within my local group contributed to my feeling less engaged and more disillusioned.
Did the Focus Shift Away From What Attracted Me?
This is a crucial point. The SCA's focus can shift over time, and what once drew individuals in may eventually fade. Initially, I was captivated by the craftsmanship and historical research aspects. However, I found that the emphasis in my local area shifted more towards combat and less towards the artisan skills that initially sparked my interest. This change, while perfectly valid for the group, wasn't personally fulfilling anymore.
Were there Issues with Inclusivity and Diversity?
This is a growing concern within the SCA. While efforts are underway to improve inclusivity, the SCA's predominantly white, Western-European focus historically has led to challenges in representation and acceptance of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. While my own experience wasn't directly related to blatant exclusion, a lack of genuine diversity in my local group contributed to a sense of disconnect and a feeling of not fully belonging.
Did Burnout Play a Role?
Burnout is a very real possibility. The intense dedication, creativity, and emotional investment required within the SCA can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also lead to burnout. This can manifest in various ways, from physical exhaustion to emotional detachment, hindering the joy and fulfillment once derived from participation. Recognizing this burnout was a crucial step in my decision to leave.
Was it Simply Time to Move On?
Ultimately, for many, leaving the SCA is simply a matter of moving on to different phases of life. The demands and priorities shift, and the SCA, while wonderful, may no longer align with one's personal goals and aspirations. It’s a natural progression, not necessarily a reflection of any shortcoming within the organization itself.
Leaving the SCA wasn’t easy. I made many wonderful friends and created countless lasting memories. But recognizing that my needs and priorities had shifted, and that my continued participation wasn't genuinely fulfilling, allowed me to move on with a sense of peace and gratitude for the experience. My journey within the SCA was valuable, but it was also a chapter that reached its natural conclusion.
