‘24 End of Year Letter 123124
Where are we headed?
Gentlemen, we have had an interesting year. We kicked out dead weight as we gained a solid new member. We had a few close calls and helped each other through some tough times. We’ve also seen some members growing stronger, together. We had some good rides and great hunts. The best part is that we’ve had a brotherhood with which we could share those moments and other life experiences. That type of brotherhood is rare.
We all saw Drew’s text. Some of us can understand where that frustration comes from. This question has been previously posed to our Patch Holders. Now I ask each of you…
Is your ring your crest or your costume? Does it represent your part in an extraordinary commitment to our clan or is it just something you wear sometimes, when you ride hang out with certain buddies?
I could tell you my answer, but I’m sure there’s no doubt. I could name more who I believe are similarly committed but I’ll leave that for each of you to declare for yourself.
Before you answer, I encourage you to take a little time to read through some of our documents and previous communication. Read our oath to remind yourself of the commitment you all signed. Read our bylaws to remind yourself of the standards we’ve all agree make our clan legitimate. Read “Our Mission” to remind yourself of who we strive to be. You should also review the “IIWWMI” section to see how you might contribute. As we each find resources of motivation and knowledge, we should use this platform to archive and share those with one another.
I do not need nor am I seeking any sort of affirmation of my own opinions. But I do believe conversations like these, confirming these types of facts, good or bad, give actual meaning to the symbols of our clan that are otherwise just meaningless posturing.
If it matters, I encourage you to write your answer down … put it on paper so you can reference it when you need a reminder. If you send me your answer, I’ll happily add it to our “Additional Documentation” section. We are 10 years in. It would be interesting to read these 10 years from now.
We all have busy lives, which is a good thing. But unfortunately, that doesn’t leave us with as much time as we’d like to hang out together. I don’t have “drinking buddies”. I don’t spend my (limited) personal time with casual friends. For several of us, when we do have time, we choose to spend it with each other.
Remember, OHC is what we choose to make it. Our strength and legitimacy are derived from those choices. What do you choose? Where are we headed?
On an administrative note, the Member Fund has been updated and dates for the (known) 2025 Member Events are posted.
Spring Gathering in TX 032025 to 032325
Patch Holders’ Ride 101825 to 102125
Summer Gathering in TBD 102125 to 102425
If you’re interested, we’ve also got a couple of Guest Events posted. If you’ve got something that needs to be posted, just let me know.
I look forward to our conversations and hope to see each of you soon. Until then, I wish you and your families a peaceful and prosperous 2025. Let’s make this year a great one!
Stay safe my brothers.