Many of you have experienced the recent up-tick in our “holy train nights”.  Honestly, I felt our chapter took a little dip in enthusiasm for a while, but I just left Keith Kittinger’s man cave over on Plainview Dr, and when I walked in, I was a bit taken by the number of people milling around, having conversations in small groups, and eating peanuts!  The room had a great positive energy I enjoyed being in. 

Every group or organization goes through hills and valleys – it’s a human dynamic no one can absolutely put their finger on.  We just know it happens.

Our success is due to a few ingredients: 1. We have common interests.  2.  Within that interest spectrum, we all have our different niches which provides some variety and makes us a bit interdependent – some know electronics, some know carpentry, some know painting, some know track-work, etc.  3. Most of us enjoy fellowship with one another which is probably the most important.  But, I don’t think any of these ingredients would stand on their own. 

I learned the term symbiotic by watch Star Wars movies since 1977.  The term refers to the belief that living things survive by sharing life from common sources.  It’s a little abstract for this article, but the older I get, the more it makes sense to me.  I think our chapter lives that kind of life, good or bad.  The life of the group varies with the health, contributions, and vitality of its members.

So, I think we’re on an upswing as I’ve witnessed a couple of these gatherings outside the monthly formal meetings.  I see good relationships, and enjoyment every time.  Just look at the pictures president Ricky sent me…

Somehow, Keith managed to get into every shot!