Dear Betzy,
Please let me start off by saying you are the perfect person for the role as Communications Officer for our writer group. Though the position is dubbed, "secretary," I think you've elevated it nicely. And for that, I'm excited because I was glad to step back and relinquish this role. East Texas has needed a writer's group. Last year we were getting our feet wet, figuring out what to do with it. Now that the writer's group is established, I see true commitment and leadership in you. What was created will flourish with your passion. Thank you for carrying this torch.
Now then, a few things about the world outside of East Texas that you should know. And please note, I'm only sharing this with you because you've made me the victim of your shenanigans. There is never a time to send a group text and demanding EVERYONE on the text--whether they are a member or not--respond to said text. Why? Because our phone does not need to blow up 837 times in an hour with, "yes I'm coming," or "no, I'm not available for the party" or "who are you and why do you have my number?"
Additionally, if you've already broadcasted your message in other mediums, such as e-mail, some sort of weird phone app not everyone uses AND social media sites, there's no reason to duplicate your efforts. Therefore, if not everyone responds to your text, please don't feel the need to send out another group text to the same folks admonishing the people who didn't respond. This is a Christmas party, not a medical procedure where you need everyone to participate.
That said, if you receive some sort of other communication with an RSVP, there is no reason to broadcast everyone else's reply. If Suzy isn't going, we don't need to know--especially if Suzy isn't a member of the writer's group. If Joan is going, awesome! There's no reason to tell us before the party. Let us be pleasantly surprised.
Also, does it really matter what we are bringing? You said a book for a book exchange. At some point there are folks who might think you have control issues if you must have this information prior to the party. It is true, I have zero idea what book I'm bringing for the book exchange. Please don't feel the need to send out another group text reminding me that I need to get it together by tomorrow.
Speaking of tomorrow. I'm rethinking going. It isn't you, it's me. Sorry, it's cold. I don't want to drive 20 miles for a party after dark and probably drive in the rain or on ice. I have zero Christmas spirit. I got rid of all the books I didn't want four years ago when I moved. Because we are on a tight budget I don't want to buy a book either. I could throw in one of the books I authored, but no.
Anyway, these are small wrinkles I'm sure will be ironed out as the group grows. I see great things for this writing group--especially if you target your communication to us with future writing-centered events and stop focusing on crowd control. And as much as I hope your enthusiasm catches on, I also hope you find a way so soften it and spread it out instead of inundating us all at once.
Sincerely,
Everyone Else
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