But today, I think it's about time things changed.
Today, something struck a chord with me which I just have to put out. Sometimes it's a little embarrassing to dig deep into our hearts, but I think it's because we fear what we really feel and find it difficult to embrace those emotions. This emotion I'm feeling today is sheer happiness.
When EXCO 08/09 planned it's first Camp (Aperture), I think we did it for various reasons. We did it because it was something fresh. We wanted it because we felt we didn't have something to call our own. We hoped that it would cement our commitment to the club. But most of all, I personally believe that I wanted the camp because it could do so much more than just teach photography.
It could change the way the club worked.
Yes, maybe it's because I believe in the power of group dynamics and therefore wanted this camp so badly. But at the core of it, I think I knew I wanted to feel rewarded by the fact that MJC Photog was a club. A club - meaning that it was about a group of people with similar interests coming together, almost like a family. A club cannot be about the EXCO alone, it must be there for everyone. That was my dream.
Today, I've seen that dream turn into so much more than I could have imagined at that time. Our current J2 EXCO has shown me that. They continue to fight for that dream which we had put out. Bonding, teaching, loving and providing for the new juniors. You can see that it's more than just fulfilling the role required of a senior member. What I see are people who want to welcome more people into the family as one of their own.
The stories of previous EXCO batches who brought up the club on their own are nevertheless epic and of course I respect them. In fact, it is because of them we have the foundation to come this far. It's hard to ever express fully that kind of gratitude. But now, I think they can also see how their solid foundation has allowed the club to move on to greater things. Thanks to them we are now able to finally create a culture where EXCO and members are not exclusive.
When I saw the J2s coming back to help for the camp, I was thrilled. All of them were so happy and enthusiastic till the end. I saw people, regardless of being EXCO or member working together for the camp and I must say it is a touching sight. I could only wished to have worked the same way with my members during my year. Everyone has something special to offer and that is the beauty of being in a club.
So to Shruthi and gang, I must say I am absolutely proud of you guys. You carry on the hopes and dreams which I had for the club when I came in. I know it sounds a little selfish of me to place my personal dreams in you guys but thank you for carrying on the tradition. You guys have grown stronger regardless of what anyone else has to say. In my eyes, you guys have provided for the club a genuine experience. Your contributions are there so don't for a moment think you have not created an impact on the club. You may not see it right now, but once you step down you will know what I mean.
You guys make me one proud senior (:
With love and sincerity,
Elliot Lucas Marcell Tan Yen Yun
