[6018] in APO-L
Re: service as a focus
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Library Circulation Staff)
Tue Apr 20 14:45:32 1993
Date: Tue, 20 Apr 1993 13:22:10 -0500
Reply-To: Library Circulation Staff <circus@ECN.PURDUE.EDU>
From: Library Circulation Staff <circus@ECN.PURDUE.EDU>
To: Multiple recipients of list APO-L <APO-L@PURCCVM.BITNET>
In his message, ROBERT GOLDBERG <@VM.CC.PURDUE.EDU:FUAKECB@IUP> writes:
In his message, Jeffrey Davidson states that he does not see a problem with
people joining APO for the fellowship aspect of the fraternity. I agree with
him but only to the extent that the fellowship enhances the service that we
do. A-Phi-O distinguishes itself from other fraternities because our focus is
on SERVICE. We are a SERVICE fraternity. We have FRIENDSHIP within the
fraternity and that is an important part of the SERVICE that we render.
I disagree with the above. I also would like to make some
clarifications. I do not have trouble with anyone for the reasons
they join APO. I am concerned that they see the value, honor,
and distinction that can be gained from following the Scout Law/Oathes
and our 3 Cardianl Principles (but this is a pledge program issue).
I cannot agree with the idea that friendship's only purpose is to
enhance our service and that it is a part of the service we render.
It is one of three cardinal principles. It in no way serves as a
subset to some greater purpose because it is one of our three
purposes.
The important thing to remember is that A-Phi-O cannot be successful unless we
coordinate all three of our cardinal principles-LEADERSHIP, FRIENDSHIP, and
SERVICE. These principles do not stand alone, they work together to form the
bond that we call Alpha Phi Omega. But it is important to remember that the
thing that distinguishes us from the "social" fraternities is that our focus
is on SERVICE. It is not wrong to "toot our own horn," because that is how
people get to know what it is we are all about.
Maybe it's me, but I see some contradictions in the previous two
paragraphs. I think too many people talk about integrating the 3 CPs,
would rather just work on service. Regarding the 'tooting horn'
I want us to be aware that we need to watch how we present ourselves.
It hurts us more than helps when others view APO as arrogant. (While
we generally do a good job with this, the social v service greek
war is unnecessary and immature. We fulfill different needs for
people, and often different people at that.)
[stuff deleted]
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In his post, Eric Rossing <@VM.CC.PURDUE.EDU:ROSSING@HOPE> writes:
The danger is that a chapter can emphasize Service to the loss
of the other two principles. When I joined my chapter, there
was a lot of emphasis on Service, but very little Leadership
focus, and the only Friendship-things were pledge events. Now,
I think my chapter is more balanced between the three.
This is not just a danger, but a common occurance. The same can be
said for chapters that are primarily fellowship oriented. Another
common problem. (I can't imagine a leadership problem, but I can
always hope! :) )
There needs to be a balance. Service is not our only CP. Leadership
is not approached with 10% of the effort that the other CPs receive.
This makes me sad.
I refer to one of my last lines in the original post. "Why do people
feel the need to judge?" Often Service brothers look down their
noses at Friendship brothers. Friendship brothers don't include the
Service brothers. Where are the Leaders who try to build up our
common purpose? Who can give us vision and encourage our heart?
It is the leader and friend who does this for us. They do it by
serving the needs of others, but this is much different than how
our Service CP is defined.
[stuff deleted]
In brotherhood, CRASH Purdue University
Jeffrey S Davidson Alpha Gamma
circus@ecn.purdue.edu
Post Script: Thank you to those who are willing to discuss this issue. JSD
