Titles are a designation of rank, office, term of respect, a description of a relationship between the title owner and those around them.
Titles are only as significant as the connection they make for those using them.
In some paths of life it is common for everyone to call each other brother or sister. Yet in other paths the distinction is not just one denoting a like mind or a fellowship but involves rank as well. The Path of Light for instance makes a distinction of experience, using terms Little Sister or Little Brother to respectfully acknowledge their beginner status within the Path.
There is always the actual familial relationships which are shared. In this community we have people who are in truth relatives, and then we have extended family as well. You are likely to hear the same person addressed with any number of titles and terms of endearment.
The titles within a certain path may include that of Elder, Master, Mistress, Lord, Lady among others. They are generally only used formally during official functions. These titles are bestowed upon the members of the group according to their traditions or bylaws.
Be aware with the invention of the internet and internet nicknames, those nicknames very rarely have anything to do with a person's status within the community. On the internet as in life respect is earned and not just afforded due to titles.
Blessings,
tia
