If I may boldly add something. Whatever office you chose to serve in, you are *never* alone. Past holders of these offices are always there for support and advice. All you need do is ask, there is no shame in that. Every office has it's high points and low points, but the friends you make for the future are beyond value. So, I say, no more excuses. Stretch your boundaries a little. You are not alone. HL Francesca -- "Steppes Seneschal" wrote: As a Barony, the Steppes must maintain a certain number of officers. As I have observed over the past few years, this has become more and more difficult to do. If you have served as an officer during the past 3 years or are currently serving, this letter is not directed to you. It is directed to those who have not taken the opportunity to serve the Barony. I know all the reasons used to not become an officer: I'm shy and can't talk in public... I'm too new... I'll just mess it up... There are others that will do a better job... It looks to hard to do... You get the idea. The problem with this is the those who choose to serve, wear out. As each person 'wears out' they take longer and longer before deciding to serve again. Right now we have 5 offices that need applicants as soon as possible ( Hospitaler, Chronicler, Treasurer, A&S minister and Senschal ). Several of these offices are required for us to remain a Barony. We are near a cross-road. If we are to remain a Barony, we must have new bodies in these offices, not the same serving few as has been the case. The choice is yours. No one is perfect in an office, so don't let that stop you from making the attempt. Please, it is time to get off of the fence and join the parade. -- Jon Rolfsson Steppes Seneschal