“And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country”
-John F. Kennedy
Soon after I wrote “Are We Heading in the Right Direction?” in which I raised the question as to what the ISP was doing for its Members, I received a lot appreciation for expressing my concern for them. It was a feeling that came from the bottom of my heart and I had expressed it is just so many words. And now, as I am in the middle of my term, I realize that the Society is doing its best to cater to all its members, which, unfortunately, is not apparent to most of us. We all want much more; like the tag line of a commercial “Yeh dil mange more!”
We have just seen the completion of the PG Convention; and just like it happens during the valedictory function of any ISP program; the organizers received huge accolades for their wonderful program. But quite contrary to that; my inbox was filled with negative messages, criticizing the event, finding faults from the scientific program to the temperature of the food served. I even got calls saying that all ISP events are catered to a select few members (which I suppose meant EC members!). The purpose of the valedictory function is not only to shower bouquets but to hurl a couple of brick bats too. Why is it that no one is interested in attending this function? Why do we not give an honest feedback, there and then? Why is it that we publicly praise but privately criticize our organization?
If Life Members wants the society to do something for them shouldn't they be a part of the system? Should they not attend the AGM and say what's on their mind, rather than sit back and enjoy the wrangling that goes on? Shouldn't they have a say in the proceedings of the society? In fact they should come forward and contest for Executive Committee or Office Bearer posts, and voice their concerns during the meetings. They should take active part in the Oral Hygiene Day celebrations and Essay Competitions. And they should make every effort to publicize the branch, within the faculty of Dentistry and in the public too. After all, the ISP is neither mine nor yours; but it's ours, and we must work for its glory.
“And so, my fellow Periodontists, ask not what Indian Society of Periodontology can do for you, but ask what you can do for your ISP.”
