Editor:
When one’s favorite big red classic truck isn’t running right, many start by making a list of what could be fixed. If the low-cost, easy-fix doesn’t work, one goes onto the next step (often more difficult and more expensive).
Your most successful truck enthusiasts will start on the inside and work their way out so that when they are finished the truck runs great and then looks great, too.
A narcissistic, egocentric person will do the opposite, working first on the look and sound of the truck, thinking that if they look and sound good riding around, the town will think they have a great truck.
They spend time and resources on looks and make a lot of noise, ignoring the check-engine light. Often times they drive far from town to use it for activities it wasn’t even created for.
The truck’s problems become worse. Town folk recommend they fix their problems. But, alas, they have little resources left and even less desire to fix the problem on the inside. They get issued fix-it tickets and repudiate them until they are called into court. They pander for help as legal bills and denial swells. Soon they demand, then eventually they threaten.
The noise and exhaust is especially nauseating for the people who volunteered for years only to see their time, talents and financial donations wasted on activities that aren’t even the organization’s primary responsibility area.
Many local entities might fit this description, but one is special. It has replaced every part except one, since their problems began years ago, yet the problem inside remains.
Maybe it’s time they replaced their supercharged, high-output, turbo exhaust. The check-engine light came on as soon as it was added. It never belonged on a classic anyway.
Dr. Charles Schelly
Idyllwild
