I am in Thailand this week. Suddenly the country is very optimistic. High pay for degree holders. Incentives to control inflation. More education grants. Tax reliefs. Gosh, enough to give the economy a good kick start. After 10 years, the rains are here. More rains. But, unfortunately, too much, the rivers are over-flowing too; and North Thailand has begun to flood. Soon, Central Thailand and today even Bangkok is worried it will have floods. Luckily I am on a high floor. I remembered one year, I woke up only to find my place surrounded with water. But, I do have something serious on my mind.
1. Once in a whiile, we must reflect on why we have so many members, and yet they do not join us in its activities. Have we missed out producing activities that do not meet their needs and interests? Or is it because these members do not have the time and find the venues too inconvenient? Or is it because some of our activities are expensive and not affordable?
2. Sometimes, through the talk and chat on our forum, some members feel discouraged to participate or speak their minds because others are just too outspoken or critical, or just simply inconsiderate. I guess we cannot control sexist talks; but let’s not belittle or downgrade other fellow members. The club was created with the objective of meeting just one main objective. And that is to provide SilverHairs an opportunity and platform to meet new and more friends. If you are one of those inconsiderate ones, I hope over time, you will speak with consideration for others. Respect for other member’s views are very important as we get older.
3. Another reason why some members do not participate is because they feel SHC is a match-making organisation. Obviously, not and this has not been its objective. However, it has been very successful in get members to get to know more friends. We can tell from the little groups that have popped up here and there. SilverHairsClub encourages couples to join in, singles, once again singles or married to join in. We do strive on a variety of activities; and you will note from the EO activities that all events are aimed at getting SilverHairs to meet, interact and getting to know each other better.
4. Negative thinking is a barrier to members who have good intentions. We may be a senior SHCian; but that does not entitle us to NOT give someone else the chance. We push and insist our way with our viewpoints. Advise, support new members and give them a chance. Your supportive words are seen around Singapore and the world.
5. Sometimes, I am asked why I do not support Event Coordinators’ activities? I definitely support all EO activities, which are strictly for SHC members. In principle, I leave all EC events to the organisers. This is because I am not familiar with the activity. EC events are open to non-SHC members and at this stage, I do not have a strong opinioin on these activities. However, if the EC organises such events for the benefit of members, and with a focus on SHC members, you can be sure I will give my suport. If my thoughts are weird and unbalanced, please feel free to let me know. Ideas would be great too.
6. Some members have expressed to me that another reason for non-participation of some members is because we do not cater to the below 45, children and friends in particular. I really do not know what to do. I am not likely to change my mind. But I am more than willing to hear you. Maybe you have a point.
Is there something else that you know that we do not know, that keep members away from the Club. Please share with us. What have you heard? You can bet I will consider your suggestions.
And, to those who are going to be negative, I am receptive to listen to you too.
Terence Seah
