One of Life’s Little Lessons

Yesterday I notified COMTA that I have withdrawn my name from the ballot to be a commissioner.

The blog I wrote earlier this week, where I reported on some of the recent developments there and offered my opinions about them, didn’t sit well with the folks there, to the point where they were trying to figure out how to get rid of me before I ever got there.

I felt compelled to expose that, so I put up another blog about that.

After some heart-felt discussions with a few of my mentors, I have reached the conclusion that I don’t need to serve on any boards for the present time, other than completing the term I am currently serving on the North Carolina Board. I’m on my last year there. Our Board usually isn’t too controversial, and there aren’t many big doings there that would interest the rest of the world for the most part. We try to practice transparency there, and even though I’m a sitting member, I wouldn’t hesitate to call them out on something if I felt there was a need.

The fact is, I enjoy reporting on legislation and the happenings at all the professional associations of massage therapy…I have the freedom to report on comings and goings, expose activities be they mundane or shocking, and express my opinion whether it’s popular or not. If I’m working for an organization, my ability to report on them goes out the door. And I certainly don’t want my ability to speak my truth affected in any way.

I used to volunteer for AMTA, and I enjoyed that. I’ve enjoyed my time on the North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy. It’s been very enlightening, although stressful at times. I like volunteering; I give 100% whenever I’m devoted to a task, and I would have done the same if I had been elected at COMTA. However, I think it serves the higher good if I’m free to expose what needs to be exposed, and comment on it,  no matter what entity is involved.

I’m still a member of AMTA, also a member of ABMP, a member of the Federation, a member of the Alliance for Massage Therapy Education, and an NCBTMB certificant and provider. I have a vested interest in what these organizations do, the ethical or unethical behavior of their leadership, and the transparency with which they conduct their business. And none of them are safe from my pen! Of course, it’s not all negative. I do give pats on the back when I think they deserve it.

I simply cannot give up my freedom of speech just so I can say I’m in some position somewhere, so no more “positions” for me. My chosen position is blogger, and I’m going to stick to that for the time being.

Peace & Prosperity,

Laura Allen

5 Replies to “One of Life’s Little Lessons”

  1. I must say, seeing you as a blind sheep never felt right… You are a voice that must be heard. And what you share is sometimes hard to hear, none the less, it should be heard.

    You are needed, and your sharp intuition and drive to :KNOW: should never be dulled out of concern for a “position” you hold.

    Great decision , Laura.

  2. I just read your statement online and although I don’t know you personally or professionally for that matter, I love that you are willing to speak the truth in regard to the industry and what’s really happening, pretty or not.

    I am a newly licensed massage therapist and value nothing but the truth and realities of the profession so that I can learn from others mistakes, watch out for the dark side of the industry, and make the most of my passion — and that is assisting people to the best and highest professional capacity.

    Sign me,
    Grateful for all the squeaky wheels out there (I’m one!)
    -Lisa

  3. I will look forward to your sharp eyes and sharp pen continuing to blog. Very valuable. Thanks.

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