Ham Radio - Our Privilege and Community

Ham radio is one kind of a hobby governed by the radio laws of a particular country. It is a privilege granted after having passed the test and complied with the requirements of the governing agency for telecommunication of a country. Just like any other amateur radio operator of any country, we are bound and subjected to rules, regulations, obligations, and responsibilities to pursue a harmonious relation between individuals, community and goverment. With the privilege, the responsibility is upon us to observe the values inherent with this privilege. We belong to a community wherein we have to communicate freely without taking advantage of others rights and privileges. There exist a national society wherein we are given the choice to be a part of. As individuals, we have that privilege of joining any club of our choice and participate in activities we feel we can contribute. The appointment or election to a particular position doesn't give us the authority to be on top of any member and command our own wishes. We are still bound by laws of the country in the management and administration of any corporate registered organization , be it a profit or non-profit organization. We must abide and respect the rule of the majority as always, provided standard operating procedures are followed. As individuals, be a simple regular member or officer we must inhibit ourselves from taking advantage of resources of the club or organization. The national organization in particular is the life of this community. As members, we should always ask "What can I do for the organization?", instead of asking "What do I get from the organization?". In the first place, it is the national organization that protects your privilege in using the bands. It is this organization to whom the goverment seeks dialog with in matters affecting the amateur radio spectrum. It is also the organization that represents the country in international societies like the International Amateur Radio Union and other national amateur radio societies of the world. The membership fee the national society charges is simply a small token compared to the magnitude of representation and protection it gives the amateur community. It is for this reason that we owe our pvivilege of using the amateur bands for our satisfaction. The organization should and must continue inspite of some individuals who wants to use the organization for their own personal glory and satisfaction. We must not let our privilege be step upon or use by scrupulous members with personal intentions of their own. For as long as there are hams who loves this hobby, the organization and our privilege will survive. This is a community that lives by respect. Respect to your fellow members, respect to clubs, respect to goverment, and ultimately respect from others.

Let's enjoy the hobby with others and be one in spirit. To persons and individuals not knowing what amateur radio spirit is, you belong to another community.