So if I get picked...

Well, my name was passed forward by the Operations Committee of the CA Board to the entire CA Board, for a slot on the advisory committee for the new CA President.  Should the entire CA Board ratify the list at this Thursday's meeting, I'll be on the committee.  The first committee meeting, I'm told, is scheduled for November 5th.

I admit to a bit of unease, and I'll tell you why.  CA, as many of us know, has openness issues.  My concern is that I'll be asked to keep information confidential that really shouldn't be kept confidential.  Further, that meetings or portions thereof be closed that shouldn't be closed (although we know CA doesn't do THAT! ; ) ) or other such things that are against my code of ethics.

I also have a concern that, if I behave as I know I do, and put up a fuss in favor of openness, that of course, I'll be branded 1) a rabble-rouser and 2) an impediment to the progress of the committee.  And the progress of the committee is important to me.  I gave a commitment to serve through February, and although I'm sure this date may slip a little, if the CA year starts on May 1st with no new President, something is screwed up. 

So, what do I do?  This is my quandry.  Any advice?

Comments

[Ordinary Joe]

With openness on your mind, you're already closed off to what else might arise and how else you might serve. Anticipating problems this way is its own problem. Not knowing what will happen, why fret in the meantime?

In each moment, in whatever your circumstances, be yourself simply and purely. It's the only way to do what must be done without regret.

[JessieX]

With transparency also comes a new level of responsibility for all involved. Certainly, transparency and politeness don't do much good. But transparency is often frightening. Transparency and "rabble-rousing" do not have to go hand in hand, me thinks.

On the short side of a perspective, I believe in the value of transparency. I have found it to be a great self-training tool for moderating behavior and actions in a way that allows more comfort for others to step into transparent systems.

Hardly am I perfect at it, nor the ultimate role model. But I know for myself that taking my perspective public -- via blogging, twitter, etc. -- has allowed me a chance to be more thoughtful in how I frame my words and thinking.