It's not petty to be passionate - Lifestyle - Lexington Dispatch

Monday

Dec 16, 2019 at 1:09 AM

Dear Cindy Suggests: I'm a member of a running club which, on paper, has at least 100 members. Attendance at our monthly meetings tends to be light, unless there's a special circumstance such as an election or important topic that encourages people to show up.

I'm bothered by the members who only attend meetings when they want to ask the club for a donation to a cause they hold dear. Often, this member makes a "once a year" appearance to make this request. The club is financially healthy and, more often than not, the requested donation is made.

My point (or question) is where are these people throughout the year, supporting the club by attending meetings, voicing their opinions and getting involved with club activities?

At the risk of sounding petty, I'm tempted to raise this issue at a club meeting: should we only donate money to a requested cause presented by a member who regularly attends meetings and/or is involved in club life? What do you think? — Am I Being Petty?

Dear Am I Being Petty?: Your running club is quite impressive. The fact that you can financially support numerous causes throughout the year is remarkable. It seems entirely appropriate to develop criteria which will create guidelines for members seeking monetary donations.

Perhaps there should be a minimum amount of time in which a member has participated in the club required (maybe one year) before a request such as this can be made. Additionally, each member may only receive this generous support once per year. Establish that all club members shall donate a certain percentage of their time participating in tasks that the club needs in order for it to continue to thrive.

It is not petty to be passionate about something and to invest your time in improving the details. Sometimes we have to step on some toes, just make sure you’re wearing your soft-soled running shoes.

Certainly go forward and bring this topic to your club meeting.

Cindy Davis is a retired, licensed professional counselor. All inquiries are confidential. Questions can be emailed to cindysuggests@gmail.com.