We have a few members that love to say according to Robert's Rules of Order (but only when it's in their favor). Are we sworn by some oath to always abide 100% in RRO? - Ted White, Dec. 19, 1999

A: Sort of. I understand how you feel, though. The thing is that when you joined your organization, what you did was agree to abide by its bylaws and other rules, including RONR. But you can't pick-and-choose which rules to obey, just like you can't pick-and-choose which state laws to obey. Neither can your friends, although it's understandable they'd point to the rules when they favor them. The rules are there to protect everyone's rights.

Sometimes the problem is that the bylaws are outdated or now undesirable. In that case, you'd want to have a committee look into amending them. Make your bylaws fit your needs.

Sometimes the problem is that the rules aren't understood very well. This is a tougher problem. The best answer is to study them as well as you can, concentrating on who the rule protects and why.

Don't let the rules destroy your organization. If it looks like that's what's happening, consult with a parliamentarian or an attorney. Make the rules fit the organization, not the organization fit the rules.

Best of luck!