It seems to me ...

that SEMARA is a typical ‘volunteer’ organization. Everyone who is a member chose to be a member, they ‘volunteered.’ Well, it seems that volunteers are the same everywhere, no matter what kind of organization it is.

Most are very enthusiastic when they first join; they want to get involved in all sorts of things, start all kinds of new activities, and so forth. For some reason, most volunteers have a change of heart, some sooner, some later. Some become content with following someone else’s lead. Some drop out of the parade and become spectators.

Don’t fall into the trap of worrying about what they ought to be doing. You can get yourself into a real pickle doing that. So how do you survive belonging to a ‘volunteer’ organization? My strategy is to pick something that I think is worthwhile to do and start doing it. As they say in the service, “It is easier to apologize than it is to get permission.”

Just look around you, what really needs to be done? What kinds of activities do you think SEMARA should be doing? Well ... do it! And feel good about yourself! Who knows, someone might even notice and give you a pat on the back – but don’t count on it. You should be doing these things for yourself – and you know how good a job you did without anyone else telling you!

On a different subject, it seems that Bill Miller, K1IBR, is going through a rough time right now. He’s been in the hospital since the holidays. He could get discouraged – but you can help bring some light into his life. Just send your QSL card to Bill Miller, Room 5026, Charlton Mem. Hosp., 363 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720.

[I have changed the layout of Zero Beat. What do you think?]

POINT TO PONDER

“Nothing can bring you peace but the triumph of principles.”

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Hammin' Around ...

Question* G2C06 During a disaster in the US, what frequencies may be used to obtain assistance?

1. Only frequencies in the 80-meter band
2. Only frequencies in the 40-meter band
3. Any frequency
4. Any United Nations approved frequency

* 2004 General Class (Element 3) question pool (good thru. 2008-06-30)  ANSWER on page 8