Hello all,
I pulled this of the Datsun Z-Car list and thought that it might serve
as
a set of commandments for MG owners, even though we would never resort to
snobbery! 8-) I think number 4 might be a little too much for us, but it
is food for thought...Enjoy!
"Take time to smell the roadsters."
Michael S. Lishego
> This morning waiting for F1 qualifying, I ginned-up the following
> as a personal code for myself. I don't intend this for anyone else, and
> you have the lovely gift of free-choice to decide on your own about these
> things. That said, I thought others here might be interested. As a code
> for myself, I might not always meet the standards I outline. But I firmly
> believe in self-improvement and all that stuff, so here goes...
>
> - -----
>
> My personal code of conduct as an exotic owner
>
> 1) My cars will always be clean and well-presentable. I will ensure that
my
> cars are in the highest state of mechanical condition and maintenance.
> Exotics as indeed rare, and to see one is a special experience. I have an
> obligation to present these cars to others at a high standard.
>
> 2) I will always be polite, courteous, and friendly. I will not talk down
> to or ignore anyone, and I will cheerfully answer all questions. Exotic
> owners wrongly suffer from a "snob" label. By actively and always
> countering this, I will strive to change this perception among all whom I
> met.
>
> 3) Where feasible, I will encourage inspection and observation of my
cars.
> If someone is clean and courteous, I will encourage them to sit in my
cars.
> I will actively encourage photographs. In-particular, I will encourage
> this among younger children. On occasion, I will offer rides to admirers
> under the appropriate circumstances.
>
> 4) With one exception (see 5, below), I will obey all traffic laws or
local
> traffic customs. Especially, I will pass other cars only in marked, safe
> passing zones, and I will always respect traffic speeds and noise
> ordinances within city limits. I will always drive in a defensive manner
> to protect myself and my vehicle. I will not initiate nor will I respond
> to challenges to race my cars on open public roads. When asked to race, I
> will positively comment on the challengers car and invite them to inspect
> mine at an appropriate stopping point, while asking if I might see their
> vehicle.
>
> 5) Operating my cars as Enzo, Soichiro and Ferruccio intended will occur
> only
> on open, rural routes free of heavy traffic or on appropriately
designated
> race courses. On public highways, I will use my highest powers of
> observation and diligence to ensure that I place myself, my vehicles, and
> the public in no additional danger. I will be aware of the environment
and
> road conditions, and I will not drive at excessive speeds on unknown or
> suspect roads. When approaching blind corners or hills, I will assume
that
> an obstacle exists and will take appropriate defensive measures.
>
> 6) I will share my passion and excitement for exotic cars with others
> through community service and charitable events. I will actively seek out
> community organizations such as local police departments and schools and
> offer my cars for use in events such as DARE programs, homecoming
parades,
> pep rallies, etc. Many communities have "Make a Wish" foundations for
sick
> children. If given the opportunity, I will offer a day with myself and my
> cars to such organizations in an effort to brighten an otherwise trying
> life for someone less fortunate than I.
>
> 7) I will be honest and open with other enthusiasts, and I will
accurately
> represent my cars to prospective owners and buyers. I will keep complete
> records, and I will always follow-up with purchasers of my cars to ensure
> that they continue to gain maximum satisfaction and appreciation for cars
> that I have owned and serviced.
>
> 8) I will always have a smile on my face when inspecting, driving, or
> showing my cars to others. I will never forget how fortunate I've been to
> own such automobiles and I will constantly remind myself that the future
is
> uncertain, and that today may be as good as it gets.
>
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