Provoking Thought About Membership

So a long while ago I read this poem and I thought that maybe some of you would appreciate the piece the same way that I do. It is a really strongly written piece to think about. It offers a number of points to consider when it comes to being part of a group. Remember we are all part of something. As to what part we get to play? That is up to us.

Are You An Active Member?

Are you an active member,
the kind that would be missed,
or are you just contented
that your name is on the list?

Do you attend
the meetings and mingle
with the flock,
or do you meet in private
and criticize and knock?

Do you take an active part
to help the work along,
or are you satisfied to be the
kind who just belongs?

Do you work on committees,
to this there is no trick,
or leave the work to
just a few and talk
about the clique?

So come to the local meetings often,
and help with hand and heart.

Don't be just a member,
but take an active part.

Think this over folks,
you know what is
right or wrong.

Are you just a member…
or do you really belong?

-Anthony Lewis, New York Times, UAW-LUPA