With
school back in session, it seems likely that the PTA's, PTO's, Parent/Teacher
conferences and that type of group or meeting will also begin.
Years
back when parents were advised that we were neglecting our children
if we didn't go to such meetings (PTA), either
a single parent would go while the other babysat or a babysitter
was required. Rush through supper, get the babysitter, give instructions
to both sitter and children, dress in "go to meeting"
clothes and make the meeting in time to support the parent count
for your child's class. The main speaker rises, only to tell you
that the best thing you can give your child is "quality time".
Now, tell me again, why did I have to come to this meeting?
Today,
the school is not necessarily in your neighborhood. Parents have
appointments on days set aside for consultation about a child's
progress (or lack of such). Dancing lessons, music lessons, karate
lessons, sport team practices, Sunday Schools are all back on the
"to do" calendars.
Think
about all the organizations that will be resuming their monthly
meeting schedules now that fall is approaching. Over the years many
groups got together to share common interests, (Granges, quilting
bees, card clubs, homemaker clubs, 4H clubs) just to mention a few.
Not only did they do a lot of community good but also personal good.
People could share common problems and help each other come up with
solutions, be it civic clubs or private clubs--there was chatting
and sharing.
With
the diminishing tide of neighborhood clubs, another type of club
has emerged--a more financially oriented type. Sports Boosters,
Veterans Clubs, Music Clubs, etc. All are still doing good works
for the community, but have they lost the personal touch--the sharing
of common interests?
Today's
busy world seems to be turning toward "finding one's self”and
more groups seem to be forming to help do that. Where, oh where,
have the old clubs gone. Oh where, oh where, can we find "quality
time"?
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