I just returned from my very first Elk’s National convention. What an experience ! It was truly inspiring to
hear first hand about all the terrific things the order is accomplishing. We should all be very proud. many lodges
share the same issues, less participation by members, greater difficulty recruiting young people, a shortage of people willing to be a lodge officer or committee chair. I
discussed ideas with fellow elks from Michigan, Nebraska, Massachusetts, Virginia, Arizona and Illinois. Unfortunately there are no easy answers. I did however make a few
observations, the most successful projects were always the result of a true group effort. One or even a few people can’t do it. This is what I am working toward in the Bartlesville lodge and each week it comes a little closer to reality. One thing that disturbed me about the convention was the almost universal lack of tolerance for new viewpoints. As Elks we need to be careful that we don’t use our long
tradition as an excuse to avoid change. Sure, let us not change our ideals but let us realize that some of our methods may have to change. Right here in our lodge is where we can start. We can demonstrate an understanding for others view points. We should listen carefully to everyone’s opinion, then ask objectively is this good for the
lodge, good for elkdom. If it is then lets get behind it 100% and not be afraid to compromise.