Al,

My commentary was not aimed towards your previous post at all. I wanted to show that others can not and should not make definitive statements about other people's situations and choices to join or not. Even though in some ways I completely agree with their view, it serves no good purpose for the MFCA (changing one's mind if on the fence to join or not) to berate them or belittle them over their decision.

OTOH, there ARE some people that look at most organizations (and many other things in life) as an entitlement program. And that sort of approach will eventually neuter the drive to excel and accomplish that is within most human beings. I.E., If you give away everything that others bust their humps to achieve then there is little reason to make it happen. Why bother? After all, someone else will do it for you, eventually, and just hand it to you anyway. Berate or belittle away those people and you waste your time. They are NOT going to join anyway and never were. In these cases I DO see the potential frustration by paid membership. But bashing them or pressuring them will not get them to join.

Make your case by highlighting the advantages of membership and its different levels. That serves as a good platform of information for those considering joining so they can make a better informed decision.

I, for one, am a LOT more optimistic about the future of the MFCA than I ever was before. None of it has to do with current number of members or the projected numbers for the near future. It has all to do with a much needed change that will strengthen the foundation of the organization. Without a strong foundation, the structure above, no matter how eye-poppingly glorious it might be to gaze at, will crumble. The MFCA is in the process of using rebar and concrete for its foundation. Once completed, it should stand on its own for as long as it is properly maintained.

"Dryer man" has been paid. Was hand drying laundry for almost 4 weeks. That sux. But I embraced the humility. It keeps one grounded. I sold some stuff this week - Outstanding hospital bills will be paid up by Wednesday - 4 months past due. We (our newly formed and questionably talented band) have another gig this weekend. Even if we stink the place up I will have made more than enough to pay my annual $50 membership fee. So I will be renewed by Sunday. .... that completes this portion of The Mike Pratt's Poorhouse Financial Report. Film At 11....

-Mike Pratt