From the desk of the REGION "E" ASST DIRECTOR,
 
Sandy & Earl Slack
Maple Grove, MN

Communication

The success of any organization, family, business, or even government is based on communication. In order to be understood and to get our point across, we need to communicate. We communicate with written words and spoken words. And sometimes with unspoken words… a wink, a smile, a certain look. That look can change the tone of the words. And occasionally we make a faux pas, a slip of the tongue, or just a mental goof described in more genteel terms as brain flatulence.

Unfortunately with emails and other written words, the writer’s tone is sometimes lost. And sometimes we have certain intent but it is overshadowed by our delivery. We recently had an exchange or two within my chapter that fell short of good communication. The unintentional result was hurt feelings. Apologies were made but some wounds are hard to heal.

In thinking about this topic I’ve gained a whole new appreciation for poets and novelist who use words and only words to express emotion, humor, tragedy, joy and sorrow.

My point with all this is that we, the people trying to communicate with our members, are not professional writers or columnists. We are motorcyclists from all walks of life joined by a common bond of our love for our Gold Wings and the desire to have some fun in this life. We have been recruited by our Chapters, Districts and Region to fill positions of leadership. We are volunteers doing the best we can with what skills we have.

I tell Sandy if I say something that can be taken two ways and one of them angers or offends her, I meant it the other way. I now say the same to all who are reading this article. I don’t mean any offense to anyone; I only wish humor and happiness to you all. We’ve got enough worries on the national and international scenes without getting upset over a couple of badly chosen words.

We also need to be aware that when we criticize or condemn someone else without merit or proof, it reflects on us. Spreading gossip, rumor or innuendo is never productive. And believe me, this is a case where I need to listen to my own words.

Hate me for my rugged good looks and humor but don’t hate me for my words.

Wishing you safe journeys, friends,
Earl and Sandy Slack


 
Last Updated:12/18/2007