This was a terrific experience for me and from the feedback I’ve received so far, others feel the same way and we are working towards a 2011 edition.
Instead of naming individual tips and tricks I picked up, this piece will be on a broader scale and may touch on Mr Col’s Doctoral thesis in a small way.
Group Dynamics and Our Groups Makeup
We belong to one challengingly diverse group. Young and old, white, black, latino, European, Christian, Muslim, Jewish. You name it we got it. And we all seemed to get along without prejudice or mockery. It makes me proud to be a member of this family.
Our family has rookies that don’t know the difference between an EQM and a revenue mile and Masters of the Craft. At times that creates a challenge when discussing topics. For some it is too basic. For others way over their heads. But I only heard that issue in the Mileage Run #1 seminar. People just signed up for the wrong seminar by underestimating their own knowledge. VJ did a great job.
Volunteerism
From my position I could not have asked for a better, more willing group of volunteers. I made several scheduling screw ups and people worked over time without complaint. It goes to he issue of sharing and these people gave their most precious commodity for the group: Their time. And it encompassed more than just assigned tasks. Everywhere I looked somebody with knowledge was helping somebody with a question. We are a giving group of crazies.
Our Knowledge Base is Unsurpassed
We literally could teach the airlines and hotels how to run their businesses. We have articulate experts in every area of the travel industry. And as you saw, they were willing to dig into their own pockets this past weekend to share what they know. Next ime, lets pick up not only their hotel costs but their airfare as well. We will not be disappointed.
Addiction
As a proud 17 year member of a anonymous support group, I have seen the devastation that over indulgence can cause. Fellow members, please remember through it all, we are just dealing with miles and points. The other responsibilities of life are far more important than the latest deal or promo. There will always be another deal or promo. There may never be another great partner in life, job as good as you’ve got or opportunity for something better than a few miles.
Pudding Guy put it best for me when he talked about enjoying the mileage run destination, as well as earning the miles.
Non consumed family members: if we are taking up too much time with this hobby, remember we are not out drinking and doing drugs, bute insist that we take you first class. You deserve it for putting up with us.
Charity
The final accounting is not yet done, but we have raised over $6000 for charitable causes through sales of my book and the donation of those proceeds to the Independence Fund for our Wounded Warriors. Our $1000 donation to the Independence Fund has been earmarked for a wheelchair lift for a Vet’s pickup truck as the VA denied his claim. I’ll try to get you a picture.
We are contributing over $4000 to help poverty stricken children in the Chicagoland area.
And lastly we will be making a contribution to Kiva with the remainder of our proceeds to help individuals from around the world with their small private businesses.
I Know so Little but am so Safe
When I asked these guys to speak, many of them were the old timers that have helped me along the way. It was reaffirmed to me this weekend, the information is too vast to know it all. But others will help you if you ask. We have a very giving group.
I was so busy that I did not get to sit through one single presentation in its entirety but know the help is there when I need it.
I won big by attending. I hope to see you next year.
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