This is a problem that affects all BGLOs. It is also a multi-faceted one. First, as studies have shown younger people tend to be more narcissicistic today. Their frame of reference is the self. Thus, when push comes to shove, the basic criteria which motivates one to act has to do with how it'll effect me;what am I going to get out of it, etc. Even if the qualms are legitimate, this mindset is corrosive to any organization--in fact it's inimical to the functioining of an organization which requires a high level of group cohesion, like a fraternity. There are responsibilities of brotherhood, not just benefits! You have to be brotherly, even to those who aren't brotherly all the time. One has to be committed to the ideals of your fraternity, above and beyond what you may see exhibited around you. There are always brothers "crying in the wilderness," who are doing the right thing and are struggling to make things better for the fraternity.These are our inspirations. This commitment has to be the bedrock before one can legitimately claim the mantle of reformer and iconoclastic renewer of the the "Tradition" as the new generation of leaders. I've been a member of a venerable grad chapter with old line leadership. They tend to be somewhat sceptical of the "new kids on the block." Sometimes it may be the case of short-sighted prejudice but I've come to view it in other terms also: before they hand you the "keys to the kingdom" they want to know if you are truly and utterly committed to the organization come hell or high water, through thick and thin, through good times and bad times, through disagreements and personality conflicts. In other words, are you mature enough to handle the responsibility over the long haul. Will you stick in there when brothers won't fulfill their obligations,remain recalcitrant, act "ig'nant" and abusive and don't respect the bonds of brotherhood? They've often proved it with their "blood, sweat and tears" over the decades in untiring service and devotion to the cause.
Just some food for thought. These are reflections on things I've learned,through the grace and mercy of God, from great men in the fraternity for men--Omega Psi Phi!
