I chose to join an Optimist Club because in my hometown the Optimist Club represented influence and affluence. To belong to this group meant something more than joining a service club; it was an opportunity to be mentored by some of the most successful business people in the community and to occasionally rub elbows with them in social settings. It was prestigious.
Funny, as a teenager, one never wants to be associated with the group tagged as social climbers, yet then and now, we all seek that prestige of belonging when we buy expensive accessories like handbags or tennis shoes that align us with certain groups. We even carry around a Starbucks coffee cup like a badge of achievement sending the messages, "I can afford it," and "I'm worth it," among others. Prestige may be a subconscious trigger, but compelling nonetheless.
Yesterday, I attended a regional gathering of Optimist Clubs in Twin Falls, Idaho. This club is fast approaching the 150-member mark. An active and vital service organization, they have that prestige trigger working for them. The prestige of belonging to the Twin Falls Optimist Club is that you get to associate with fun people who are actively involved in positive change the community. Isn't that motivation enough? Perhaps, but even more encouraging is to learn that all of those many people really care about their community and what's more, they care about you.
On my way home from the meeting, I heard the sad news that vocalist Whitney Houston had died. Sparked by the feeling of belonging to an Optimist Club, I thought how sad this remarkable artist was not able to find such comfort in her life. Despite her success, she seemed to live on the fringe.
In tribute to Whitney Houston and others who grapple with their own dependencies including issues of self esteem and others, I offer this powerful song, "Someone Like You," by Adele for Music Sunday at Experience Optimism.
"I wish nothing but the best for you," sings Adele. That single line reminds me of the feeling I get from the Twin Falls Optimist Club members. Concern, combined with a sense of belonging can be a powerful force for good.
