I would venture to guess that any coach, principal, parent or authority type figure would say that discipline is the worst part of a job. I can definitely see that they hate that part just as much as I do. While I see my role more as a big brother than as a parent, I still feel that having to come down on one of my brothers is the worst thing I've had to do.
We all have standards in our chapters, and there is nothing worse than having to discipline someone for not meeting those specific standards. Whether its not paying dues on time, academic performance or some disciplinary problem within the chapter, I honestly think that it hurts me more than it does them.
Recently, I've had to be the bearer of bad news to some officers in my chapter. Hearing the hurt and disappointment in their voices over losing an office makes me want to reconsider, but I can't. It hurts to know that you've had to deliver the bad news to someone that they aren't able to do what they wanted to. Yet, I can't help but remember that the brothers in question did this to themselves. Whether they didn't pay their dues because they went to the bar and blew the money; whether they bombed a final or a project which was the catalyst for poor grades; whether they took something too far, I have to be the one to bring them back to reality and enforce the laws of the Fraternity.
It's never easy to be the bad guy. It's never fun to share bad news. Yet I have to remind myself that my Fraternity did not get to where it is today by ignoring its own edicts. I know that it's probably rough, and I'm sure that there are some very hurt feelings, but in order to achieve excellence, you must instill discipline.
It is my hope that as Brothers, Chapter Advisers, National Leaders read my words, they remember that the most clear cut are always the most difficult. One day, when you are in my position, you may understand why things had to be done in the manner they were. I care about my Chapter, and my Fraternity. I hope that each and every brother succeeds in life, and can later on understand.
I'm reminded of the words of one of my predecessors "Live Ritual." That's all it takes.
Best of luck to any counterparts who may be feeling the same way or facing the same situations.
Fraternally-
Matt
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