Everyday I try to recite from memory the Rotary Vision Statement which says,  “Together we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change; across the world, in our communities, and in ourselves.”  I say it outloud.  I say it with gusto!  I say it with enthusiasm! 

 

I do this because I believe what it says.  I want this idea to sink down deep into my soul because I DO see a world where people unite instead of fighting, bickering, and blaming.  I DO want a world where people take action to create lasting change!  

 

You are the same as me.  We are Rotarians first. This last month we have seen something we have never seen before in our time.  Many people are frightened.  Many are lonesome or losing hope as COVID-19 spreads across the globe. 

 

 

Rotary has taken on diseases before.  We invented the mindset that says “WE CAN CURE POLIO”.  People laughed at us when we were so bold as to put that proposition forward.  Now we are honored for our audacity.  Rotarians see a world that can change for the better.  We always have.  We always will.  

  

I challenge each of us to limit our news and negative stories on social media.  Instead, get out a whiteboard or a blank sheet of paper and get creative!  Come up with all the possibilities that can be ours by focusing on things we can do safely and responsibly instead of focusing on things we can’t control.  Some suggestions might be these:  Read those books that have been on your list, call members of your club on the phone, see how they are doing, get out and enjoy the beautiful outdoors, set new goals and work to accomplish them, develop a hobby that you hadn’t had the time to work on, spend more time in prayer and meditation, establish new habits, and last but not least,  come up with new ways to give service to others in this unique time of need.

 

As you have heard me say before, “Say YES to service!  Its NOT about you!  Forget yourself and just serve others.”  To that I add only this: follow the good advice we have been given, to practice responsible social distancing and safeguard your health.  You can’t serve others if you are not healthy yourself!