The PTA is Like the Mafia, and That's Not Necessarily a Bad Thing

No, PTA is not organized crime. We do a lot of good, make a HUGE different in the schools and community, and all the money stuff is transparent as we can make it, I swear. But the similarities are fun to think about when it gets a little nutty. Like how you just can't seem to leave. Did you know people can be lifetime members of the PTA? LIFETIME.

The below is my story, but it is meant to be funny. Work with me....
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Almost two years ago, I was a mild mannered suburban housewife.
OK, I was sort of mild mannered, for me. But I was a stay at home mom of two very young kids, eagerly and nervously anticipating my eldest child's enrollment in all-day kindergarten at the local, highly touted, public school. I got sucked in before she even entered the school.

Now, having a strong belief in local and grass root organizations, I have been a member of our neighborhood's civic association since roughly the day we moved in. And, if you have gathered anything about me, I am no shrinking violent. I am not just present, I am usually vocal and active.
So I was an active member of the civic association, and as such I was volunteering at the duck pond at the local fireman's carnival.

It all sounds innocent enough, doesn't it?

There I was, helping small children pick up plastic ducks in return for cheap prizes, when my friend and co civic association member asked me if I joined the PTA yet. She was Treasurer at the time. Part of the Mafia, but I didn't know it yet.

"Of course not, Syd isn't even in school yet"
"But you can help before she starts"

And there it was. You would think I would recognize the soft sell, but I didn't. Blinded by enthusiasm and hope of making the world a better place for my kid, I pledged my life away to the PTA right then and there, before Summer was even over. And now, two years later, I am a made woman. Treasurer. I handle the cash. Like the consigliore, kind of.

I didn't know it then, but I know now. The PTA is the MAFIA.
Once you get in, you cannot get out. Believe me. I tried. Twice so far.
But I keep getting sucked in. The kids. The cause. The Mission.
It does a lot of good, has a lot more political power than you think, and moves a ton of cash.
It keeps order, and makes sure than their own get taken care of.
And things get messy if you talk out of turn.
See? Mafia. I was not kidding.

But yeah, it's a good looking Mafia, and most of us don't pack heat. But I do really like cannoli.