FROM THE 2nd VICE PRESIDENT
Contributed by Ill. Mel Birnbaum, PP, 2nd Vice President
Hi Nobles:
My Lady and I just returned from a potentate's ball in our territory and we were able to visit with our counterparts. What a great time we had. Our potentate's year has lapsed, but the feeling lingers on (so to speak). For those who are moving up the Divan ladder, it is imperative that you get together with your counterparts and begin to bond. Bonding can either make or break "your" year.
We have numerous events throughout the year that can accomplish this end- the Imperial week in July, two NYOSA sessions- spring and fall, NYOSA bonding weekend, Oriental Guide and Assistant Rabban seminars in Tampa and 11 potentate's balls held by the respective temples. This is not an all-inclusive listing. As potentates, we attended the East-West Shrine Bowl and nobles from other temples also joined our zany group.
When my NYOSA class began our climb to the top, as strangers, we introduced ourselves and within minutes agreed to establish a nominal counterparts fund so that we could transact any necessary business such as purchasing cards, etc. One couple agreed to do the bookkeeping, and we were off and running. Our group of Past Potentates and our ladies still communicate with each other and this has become a very important part of our lives.
I have observed that counterpart involvement could be greatly improved. Perhaps, by the time you become a Chief Rabban, you may suddenly realize that it is too late. Early bonding in our fraternity is imperative. A lack of bonding may be the reason why potentates skip certain Potentate Balls during their respective years. Don't let this happen to you. Few ever have the opportunity to serve a second term as Potentate, so you probably have only one chance to do it right. Make it a good one and you'll never regret it.
Ill. Mel Birnbaum, PP
Yours in the Faith,
Ill. Mel Birnbaum, PP,
2nd Vice President