In jealousy and ignorance, many will hate you for your heritage. But be proud to be a Gypsy! And demand the respect that is your due, my children. Do not be arrogant to the Gaje, but let no one put you down. Remember the tale of Josti the Thief:
One day, a fair young maiden was traveling to the city when Josti came forth from his hiding-place beside the road.
"Greetings, beautiful one. And whither are you going?" he asked her.
"To the market," she replied.
"Do you not fear Josti the Thief?"
"No, sir. I have nothing he could want."
"What is it that you have?" Josti asks the maiden. And surely it was naught but a few coppers with which to but cloth for a new dress.
"Ach! That is not enough!" cried Josti, and placed many pieces of gold into her hands. "Take these coins and buy yourself a dress of silk and many fine things! I ask only that when you return, you show me what you have bought, and when you marry you choose me for your best man."
And so it was. Not long after the maiden's wedding, Josti had hidden himself beside the road once more. After a long time or a short time, an old woman came making her way down the road.
Josti stepped out in front of the old woman. "Greetings Grandmother. Whither do you visit this day?"
"I go to the market to sell my wares."
"Do you not fear that you will be robbed by Josti the Thief?" Josti asked.
"That miserable son of a bitch!" she scoffed. "Why should I fear him?"
"My little Grandmother, what are you selling?" Josti asked the woman.
"Just some embroidery needles and such," was her answer.
"Please, let me buy six of them," Josti said.
And taking the needles in hand, he snatched up the old woman, tied her to a tree, and stuck the needles in her bum.
"That," he cried, "is your prize for speaking ill of Josti the Thief!"
Remember, my children, for it is the Gypsy way; if another does not give you the respect you deserve, take him and stick needles in his bum. But remember always to give proper respect to those who deserve it lest they stick needles in yours...