“To the wonderful fellowship we’ve shared, let’s all raise a toast to Rotary International!”
If you haven’t said this before, you’ve surely attended a fellowship where it was. For me, this statement carries profound significance—it made me pause and reflect.
During one of my club visits, right after the final toast, a member knelt down, seemingly in prayer. Her actions intrigued me, so I approached her afterward. To my surprise, her eyes were brimming with tears, and she clutched a handkerchief tightly. “Is everything okay?” I asked.
She responded, “We heard the DRR was tough, and we feared you’d be harsh on us. So, we worked hard to impress. But when the final toast was made, it felt like the big day we had been preparing for was finally over.”
Her words left me questioning: Are we here to impress or to address?
I know a DRR’s visit is eagerly anticipated, but should that lead us to mask the realities of our club’s status? Reports should reflect the truth, not be polished up to flatter District leaders.
Our service in Rotaract is time-bound. If we don’t pass on our roles at the end of the year, we risk outgrowing our relevance or eventually transitioning to Rotary. Therefore, our focus should always be on addressing the real needs of our communities, not impressing leadership with a sugarcoated view of the situation.
As we approach the 50th club visit this year, I urge you all to reflect on your service. Strive to serve those who need it most, rather than painting a perfect picture for the District.
“For to them, Rotary will be known by your actions, your words, and your example.” -Paul Harris
Harris frequently highlighted the importance of personal responsibility and ethical standards in fostering community trust and advancing the mission of Rotary and self-conversations like these shape our actions and influence our emotions.
Now, after the REI-Kasese impact, have you spoken to your employer about taking leave for RAS24 from November 14th to 17th, or are you planning to suddenly “fall sick”? Attach your registration confirmation to your leave request—I guarantee your employer won’t hesitate to approve.
So, ask yourself: Are you attending RAS to impress or to address?
Happy Economic and Community Development month!
