Page 3 - Voices-2022-02

To Pay or Not to Pay, That is the

Question . . .

Phyllis Harmon, DTM, PDG - Publisher/Editor

Toastmasters International is now accepting dues renewals, and the District

has some great incentives for renewing early. As I sit down to write my
checks (yes, checks are still a “thing”), I ask myself, what has “XYZ” club
done for me lately? Have my needs been met? Am I a valued member?
Do I want to renew?

As these queries flit through my mind, I hesitate. Perhaps I should take
a look at them ala President John F. Kennedy, “Ask not what your country
can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” What have I done
for my club(s)? I admit in a couple of them—not much! Both are monthly,

specialty clubs with great talent. Being an active member became a challenge
due to shifting work schedules and other life impediments.
In my two weekly clubs, I feel like I do contribute to our success. I try to
be a good role model, take and fulfill meeting and officer roles to the best

of my ability, contribute to the Distinguished Club Program, and help my
clubmates when asked. There is no hesitation writing checks for these two EDTORIAL
clubs!
I think there comes a time when we all must stop and reconsider our

choices. Do you have a mutually beneficial relationship with your club? If
not, what could you do differently? If you are already doing your best and
taking an active role in your club’s success, are you growing? Are you learning
new skills you can use in the wider arena? If your answer is a resounding

YES! then by all means carry on.
For me, it’s time to seriously consider my
options. Will I always be a Toastmaster? Of
course! Will I continue to pay dues to four

clubs, possibly not. . .but then . . . it’s only
February . . .

Volume 8 Issue 08 FEBRUARY 2022 Monthly Columnists 2021-22 Officers Administrative Manager
Publisher David Freedman, IP3 District Director Graham Smith, PM2
Phyllis Harmon, DTM Eldred Brown, DTM Eldred Brown, DTM
Harvey Schowe, DTM Public Relations Manager
Senior Editor Jennifer Schmidt, EH2 Program Quality Director Stephana Johnson, DL3
Phyllis Harmon, DTM Jim Robison, DTM Lorri Andersen, DTM
Lee Coyne, ATMS Club Growth Director
Associate Editor Lorri Andersen, DTM Jim Robison, DTM Voices! is published monthly by District 7
Leanna Lindquist, DTM Paul Fanning, DTM Toastmasters. First issue published August
PJ Kleffner, DTM Finance Manager 2014. Submit articles or contact us at
voices@d7toastmasters.org
Stephana Johnson, DL3 Jamie Gould, CC

VOICES! | FEBRUARY 2022 3