terryp
As I said, that is how your post came across to me. I am very glad to hear that I misinterpreted your words, and you would like to support an organisation which stands up for aviation.
My reference to the Texas scenario is very relevent. It is not a dig at you, but just an effort to put across the point of how important these organisations are. Within minutes of the guy flying into the building, I heard people in the FBO where I was waiting (by chance I was in San Antonio, just "down the road" in Texas terms) referring to terrorism. Then, of course, the press, politicians and non-aviating public immediately jumped on the "OMG, its a terrorist, ground all GA aircraft" bandwagon all that day. So having organisations to defend and promote the GA side of aviation are invaluable.
And without members, they are nothing, so I guess it works both ways - what do the members get out of it, and what can members do to support the organisation so it has the ability to do what needs to be done.
All the best with your flying, and, hopefully, AOPA membership
