How to Kill a HAM('s Spirit)

by Dale Kuby Kubichek, N6JSX /9

I've seen HAMs come and go. The cause of their silence is NOT due to being a "Silent Key" but that their HAM Spirit was killed by other HAMs. Occasionally, the reason for a HAMs silence is discovered. The MOST common reasons are:

Additional causes of a HAM's broken spirit are:

When a HAM decides that Amateur Radio is NOT worth the personal aggravation the usual remedy is to turn off their radio(s) and fade away into in-activity pursuing other non-related HAM activities.

The quickest way to get, totally, BURNED out on HAM radio is to become a REPEATER Club officer or a Club member volunteering to work projects. Most HAMs become Club Officers to help and make a positive difference. They are well meaning with good intentions. But being an officer with integrity, practice equality, and willing to run the Club as a democracy, i.e. "one vote for each member," will surely rock the boat and make you a target for political character assassination by an inside ruling click of the club. As an ethical officer nothing you can do will be good enough - NO matter how reasonable you are or how logical your actions - YOU DID NOT DO THE RIGHT ACTION as per some member! An ethical officer may survive a term in office but do NOT expect to receive a heart felt thank you for your services. However, if you are a gutless follower, that will allow the ruling click to manipulate and control your actions, you can be an officer for years and receive HIGH praise for your (un)effort!

Another burn-out method is to become a volunteer for a National HAM organization or RACES group. Then you can be used, abused, and discarded, merely, for trying to improve the SYSTEM or (heaven forbid you) question the logic of their illogical methods. Involvement in these organizations can give you great insight on how much false recognition goes to politically sensitive "do-nothing HAMs." In time you may discover that you are just merely being used to further the organization's financial goals. Remember, NO National organization stays in business without money!

If you want to make HAM radio a life long hobby then ONLY accept a HAM leadership position with your eyes wide open. HAM radio has much to offer and many various modes of communication. FIRST, get your feet wet and then decide which direction you want to pursue in HAM radio before getting involved in Club politics or projects! Becoming an officer can give you much "personal" satisfaction. However, be ready to put on a helmet, flack jacket, and toughen up your emotions. Get involved in the Club with guarded expectations. Do NOT expect the recognition you deserve. Be prepared to see political insiders take credit for your work and berate your efforts. Remember, for some HAMs it is easier to hurl negative slurs than give positive complements or actions.

To ALL ethical HAM's and prospective Club OFFICERS - GOOD LUCK!