Some Members are Worth More?

Someone opined on a forum discussion that active members are worth more— more attention and resources and acceptance.

I was incensed.

Many Mensans go through phases throughout their membership lifetimes. When I first joined, I was young, single, and attended many things— for the fun of it. I did not lift a finger to help. Not once. I didn't even offer to clear a table of debris at the RG. I was lazy and a taker. But still I felt welcomed.

Then I got married and had babies and spent several years under a rock. I went to nothing. I tossed my Bulletins unread. I glanced at our local newsletter occasionally, but it only contained information about events I would miss and people I didn't know. However, that once-a-month paper reminder on the coffee table reassured me that there was more to me than laundry and diapers. It kept me connected, though Mensa officers didn't know I existed.

A few years later, the kids started school and I emerged from my rock. This time, I was looking for challenging projects to do that would stay done (unlike laundry) and I wanted to give something back to the group that welcomed me and kept me hooked despite my laziness and lack of participation. And I have volunteered and given thousands of hours to Mensa since then.

If anyone had told me I was not worth his time or attention in my two earlier phases, Mensa would be one volunteer poorer today. So to all you silent, seemingly inactive members I say: You are wanted. You are valued. You are needed. Mensa is here for you when you need us.