When is the sum greater than its parts?
A farmer had seven children. One winter day he called his children together. He handed the eldest son a stick to break in half. The young man easily snapped the stick in two. He repeated the exercise with each of his children. Then he handed each child another stick. However, this time he asked them to combine the sticks into a bundle and break the bundle in half. First, the eldest son tried. But, he could not break the bundle. The farmer gave the bundle to each of the other children. However, no matter how much power and cunning each one used, the bundle could not be broken.
This year, several NoVES committees validated this story by working closely together. They are finding difficult tasks are more easily accomplished and previous year squabbles between committees a thing of the past. For example, the three-member publicity committee began meeting at the start of our program year in September with a Board liaison and representatives from the Sunday School, Caring, and Newsletter committees. Everyone attending the meeting was determined to do his or her best to promote the Society rather than to argue over turf. The group set up a system for placing Society information on Facebook, Meetup, and the NoVES web site. They developed a way to let parents and members know what is happening each week at Sunday School. The Director of Religious Education also offered to write a periodic blog. Participants all agreed photos and personal stories are important techniques to engage our members and the public. The committee even established a system for letting those who do not have e-mail know what is going on at the Society.
A similar thing happened recently when the Adult Growth and Learning committee met. In this instance, a Board liaison, Board Treasurer, Green Hedges liaison, and publicity committee reps also attended. The group decided to conduct a survey to discover what NoVES members wanted from adult education. They also discussed publicizing and scheduling classes. This group will continue its discussions in January.
In the coming months, board liaisons to various committees and committees with similar purposes will be meeting to discuss ways that committees and teams can join together to better meet the needs of the Society and work together more effectively. Just like the farmer’s seven children, NoVES members will find strength in unity.
