Religion The halfling religions are commonly nature oriented and down to earth, and the practice of worship is practical and interwoven with everyday life. Larger ceremonies are usually performed outdoors collectively and in conjunction with seasonal festivities, while layman rites typically involve small gestures or sacrifices to show respect towards nature. Abstract and spiritual matters are often explained by borrowing examples from nature. In such ways spiritual rebirth, for example, can be compared with the planting of a seed – a metaphor any halfling farmer or gardener can appreciate. Halflings commonly see all things in nature as having a soul, and a commonly spread idea is that there was a time when halflings could fully understand and communicate with plants. Unlike the elves who tend to see a larger conscience, halflings often view each plant as a living entity with its own special needs and wisdoms. Most halfling myths claim that the halflings originate from the Mervin Hills. As a result, these hills are often seen as the sacred origin of all life and a paradise of sorts – at least as far as the halflings are concerned. Superstition A widespread custom is to talk to plants. It is considered both healthy and polite, and renowned gardeners are often said to speak the tongue of the plants. Halflings are rather superstitious, and they commonly think that they may receive boons or punishments depending upon their adherence to everyday omens and their respect towards nature. A good crop may be said to depend upon the solstice celebration, while sour milk in the cellar may be a foreboding of an upcoming accident.