We are the Gold Wing Road Riders Association. The key words here are Gold Wing and Association. Let's take a look at those words. Everyone in this Association certainly knows what a Gold Wing is-A luxurious, high- powered motorcycle, unrivaled in the touring class.But what is an association? The most common definition is, "An organization of people with a common purpose and having a formal structure." This definition certainly holds true for us. We have a formal structure and a common purpose. Our purpose is to gather together and do what we love, ride our motorcycles.

But what about those who want to join in our fellowship that may not own a Gold Wing? We know them as Associate Members and welcome them to join us for companionship, on and off the road. Just as people come in all makes and models so do motorcycles, and we don't exclude anyone from our Association because they don't own a Gold Wing. As long as they love riding and want to enjoy the benefits GWRRA has to offer, we welcome them.

But, do we exclude them (either consciously or unconsciously) within our Chapters by not extending the hand of friendship as readily as we do with full Members? Are we making them feel as welcomed into our Chapters as those who own Gold Wings?

Many Associate Members join GWRRA because they've heard wonderful things about us. They are looking for a group of friendly people, like us, with whom they can make a connection and become part of a family. What a great honor it is to have an Association that people want to be a part of when there are so many different clubs and organizations to choose from. Let's make a concentrated effort to open the door of friendship in GWRRA to all those who wish to belong, and treat everyone with the same dignity and respect regardless of what they are riding.

Enjoy the ride!
Melissa Eason