Once Buyanto has completed the circle, he pours each person a glass of vodka in turn. Before drinking, the Buryats dip their ring fingers into the liquid four times, and scatter four drops onto the ground, to the gods of wind, fire, water and earth. Even when drinking at home, the Buryats follow this ritual: it is part of their tradition of giving thanks, no matter how small an offering may be. Wisps of grass added to a holy fire, a handful of pine nuts placed under a prayer wheel -- all offerings are believed pleasing to the gods, and there is no feeling of competition as to who can give more.