There are so many things I love about ham radio. But, as an extrovert's extrovert, my favorite aspect of the hobby is the interaction with new people.
In the 5+ years since I returned to the airwaves, I've met a number of people I now consider to be my friends. And among those folks, there is a smaller group with whom I have made a special connection.
Recently, I added to that select list. Or rather, a fellow ham radio operator read my QRZ.bio and thought "Man. Me and this guy have a lot in common. I really want to connect."
And a point of pride for me is that he has become a regular reader #CoachJeff's Blog. So, no names. But, he knows who I am talking about.
We have had a number of on-air contacts over the past few years -- 11, to be exact. And, recently, we've even chatted via phone a couple times. I have a feeling, we'll do it again soon.
For those of you who have been readers of the blog for a while know these facts. But for the record, here are a few traits/interests that me and my new friend share.
- Travel
- Goal-Setting
- Photography
- Baseball
He and I could talk at great length about many topics. But, c'mon. #CoachJeff and baseball? As conversation pieces go, it's a winner.
During one of our chats, we talked a great deal about Cooperstown. He has spent quite a bit of time there and, of course, my family thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007.
I could devote an entire post to our experience that day.
Recently, the two of us chatted via an instant messaging portal for a group of which we are both members. I complimented him on his very strong signal that night. He encouraged me, too, as I made the last contact with the coveted station before it signed off.
Camaraderie and collegiality. Two other factors I love about this hobby.
During another conversation, he asked me about my Atlanta Braves fan experience. I think he wondered why I picked the Braves. I noted that Tennessee is fully ensconced in Braves Country and Truist Park is a short drive down I-75 from my QTH.
About a week later, a prize pack arrived in the mail. The package included a number of baseball cards featuring various Atlanta Braves players. Talk about a sweet gift. And one that is greatly appreciated.
Some folks may gripe about subtleties about our hobby. It's not as friendly as it once was. The old etiquette is gone. There are jerks around the airwaves. It's too impersonal. It's become too tech-friendly.
I dismiss those comments.
Where I come from, it's all about the people. And because of this great hobby, I've met many great people.
And the most recent is a New Yorker with the gift of gab, some great stories and a heart of gold.
JG
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