Terminology

As we start the New Year, and we are indoors for the duration, it gives one time to stop and reflect. So, this is what I am doing. During a discussion with a fellow Mensan, a good friend, we were discussing the possibility that someone was doing something on purpose in order to upset the other person. The reply was, in essence, surprise that someone would suspect ‘motive’ in the action. The conversation then turned to ‘motivation’. Now, to borrow our past-Communications Officer’s soapbox (thanks Tim for the soapbox, and a job well done, by the way), I would like to discuss the two concepts. All too often, some of us are quick to ascribe motive to another’s actions. As a rule, it is not a wise or judicious thing to do. Unless one has a full understanding of the situation and the individual, presuming someone’s reasons for an action is not appropriate or reasonable. No one is completely altruistic, nor is anyone completely narcissistic. Most of us exist in a region that moves in one direction or another, for reasons that may defy logic or emotion. It is important to remember this when dealing with others, for presuming intent can sometimes be projection or self-fulfilling. As far as motivation, when we deal with other Mensans, we need to motivate them to assist in the accomplishment of goals. We have at times been very successful, witness most Annual Gatherings, and within the past year, ProxyQuest. The key, in my opinion, is positive stimulus, for if we treat each other as human beings, with respect, then not only will the goal be reached, but the team will be enriched.

So, for the record, I will state a few of my Mensan resolutions for the year 2005. First, I will strive to be less judgmental and more open-minded in dealing with other individuals. Secondly, I will strive to utilize positive motivational techniques, eschewing any attempts at management by deceit or dominance. Thirdly, I will maintain a positive attitude when working to achieve a goal. Finally, I will open myself up to the kindness of others and the kindnesses that I can provide for others. If you are of a mind, please feel free to share your resolutions for the future year.

As decided at the December AMC meeting, Special Interest Groups (SIGs) will be handled differently then they used to be. There are some important changes. The SIG coordinator has control over the functioning of the group, and may limit participation as he/she sees fit. Any disputes will be taken up with the SIGs Officer of American Mensa. An amendment was proposed to assert that a SIG make every effort to be “inclusionary” rather than “exclusionary”, but it was not passed, even though most SIGs espouse this philosophy already. In addition, the 2007 Annual Gathering will be in Birmingham, Alabama, marking the 10^th anniversary of their previous, successful AG. 2008 is still undecided, and bids will be most welcome. The 2006 Mind Games will be in Portland, Oregon.

The March AMC meeting will be in Columbus, Ohio. When the agenda is formed, I will be soliciting your opinions on matters on the Region 2 discussion board. You may join by sending an email to: AML-Region2-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. I vote according to your wants and needs, and appreciate all input.

I got a chance to attend the Winter Solstice Regional Gathering. It was a small, but lively crowd. The Lancaster Host Hotel was a fantastic venue for a gathering, and hospitality was incredibly comfortable. Although there was no program, the shopping, gift exchange and banquet were incredible, and need to be experienced. I believe you will have a chance to do that next year, and I recommend that you do. For the future, so far, I am only aware of the firm dates for Central New Jersey’s Snowball XXXI, “Nautical but Nice” in Piscataway, NJ during March 4-6.

The dues renewal process is underway, and the deadline is March 31^st. Although the amount has gone up to $52, it is still a bargain. Those who got their payments in before December 31^st were able to pay the old rate of $49, and the National Office is astounded that about one third of the current membership has renewed before the start of the renewal period.

See you next month….