Theos-Talk Archives (May 2012 Message tt00183)

Situation in the American Section of TS(Adyar)

The American Section of TS(Adyar) is the second largest in the world, the
largest being the Indian Section. There is continual shrinkage of
membership in the American Section (this is a hot potato no organizational
leaders dares to discuss) while Indian Section is an exception with
continual growth. Membership head count is the only objective measure of
how the organization is doing, even though some may contend quality vs
quantity issue, which no one can objectively prove.

When TS was launched, the transportation and communication was difficult
and hence the model of branches in cities was setup with of course
traveling lecturers and officials visiting the lodges and rejuvenating
their activities. Even with vast improvement in transportation and
communication, traveling lecturers and officials continue to be a key
ingredient to the expansion of theosophical lodges. This is what is going
on in India.

The picture in the American Section is totally different. For years, many
lodges have not seen any traveling lecturers and neither they have seen any
of the elected officials. On the other hand, we see activities are
concentrated at the National HQ, which most members could not afford to
participate in. We have also not seen any indication of any attempt to
address this issue. So we only can assume there is no change in direction
and we will continue to see shrinkage of membership and lodges in the USA.

On the other hand, Internet seems to be playing a key role in the future of
theosophy in the world and especially in the USA. There is no need to
mention the critical role Internet played during the last International
Election and its aftermath when Internet was instrumental in keeping
members up todate around the world with verifiable facts when
unsubstantiated allegations were spread to defeat the sitting President and
also tarnish International administration at Adyar.

To provide a forum for men and women interested in theosophical topics, in
the USA, one long time theosophist single handed setup, theosophy.net,
an open Internet forum with no financial or other help from any
organization. This forum now has over 1,000 members around the world and it
just shows what a determined and committed member can achieve.

>From the American National HQ frequently we receive solicitation for funds.
Considering the above dismal situation with membership, each of us should
examine if the funds can be spent elsewhere for better results in helping
our fellow men and women. You be the judge.

MKR


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