If you don't have Brethren willing to help/support you, you're basically powerless. Sad deal, but true. Build bridges now and hold your Officers ACCOUNTABLE!
DO ANY OF YOU LISTEN TO THE INSTALLATION or do you all just sleep through it?
But we always seem to have that one condescending guy who thinks it his role to be rude - of that, there is almost never a shortage. I think havin one or two guys behind you that enjoy skinning those particular cats is pretty essential.
Ouch. I think Bro. Jones was looking for advice on how to provide sufficient motivation to keep all Officers engaged without using the gavel too heavily. Motivation and obligation are two seperate things.
"I'm not sure how it could really be expected since our organization is volunteer". This isn't some service organization. You guys took an obligation to each other and renewed that obligation when you were installed in your stations. If you are not willing to commit your best and be held accountable you should NEVER accept an office in your lodge. DO ANY OF YOU LISTEN TO THE INSTALLATION or do you all just sleep through it?
We need to do a better job of setting expectations for our stations and places. Our Lodges have By-Laws, but they should also have Rules and Regulations, and these R&Rs should spell out the responsibilities of each office, all the way from Lodge maintenance to education. Each officer should know what they're getting in to way before they accept a nomination or appointment. This keeps us all on the level, and provides structure for running the Lodge. These R&Rs should also be reviewed from time to time, say every three years, to make sure they are still applicable, and it's worth noting that they never replace the discretion of the Worshipful Master.
If a man has been given a definition of his responsibilities, beyond what's defined in the Monitor, and GL Law, and he still fails to meet those expectations, then he should not be allowed to move on, and feelings should not be hurt.
Leadership positions within Lodge should be reserved for the peacemakers, and more importantly for those who can best work and best agree. We need to do a better job of admonishing each other, with friendship and humility.
DO ANY OF YOU LISTEN TO THE INSTALLATION or do you all just sleep through it?