February is “World Understanding Month” in the Rotary world. It seems like we are preaching to the converted when reminding Rotarians to consider people from other nations.
Once again we led the way with ShelterBoxes and aid, hitting the shores of Haiti almost before the aftershocks had stopped. Thank you all for your contributions and offers of support.
Our District Governor Elect Alan Anderson, mentioned to me on his return from International Assembly that every Rotarian should experience this wonderful event. To mix with your fellow Rotarians from across the world and share in and experience firsthand, the Internationality of Rotary brings the whole RI programme into perspective.
I have had discussions with clubs and members on “the big picture” of Rotary and where our funds should be channelled. Should the money, clubs raise stay at home or should it go to 3rd world countries? Should some stay at home and the balance go to 3rd world countries? Of course the decision is up to the club, as all clubs are autonomous. But consider the following points.
 |
Rotary has a wonderful network that ensures that the money and DIK sent to the 3rd world countries gets to the people in need. |
|
The needy in 3rd world countries have no community aid, nor welfare. |
|
Education and clean water we take for granted and to the 3rd world countries it is a dream. |
My goal is to improve our Foundation Donations to ensure that people in 3rd world countries do have some hope when disaster strikes.
We had some wonderful responses from Districts in 3rd world countries who sent small amounts of money to us to assist with our bushfire relief. These Districts have trouble paying their annual dues, but they said they wanted to assist in some way, even if it was to make life easier for one or two people.
World Understanding Month. Imagine how the world would be if we all understood each other. Our religions, our cultures, our fears and our dreams and our needs. There would be peace and happiness and sharing amongst nations.
Through Rotary we can make a difference. We need more Rotarians to make this difference. Let’s do it now. The Future of Rotary is in Your Hands.
David Cooke
David Cooke
District Governor 9790
MEMBERSHIP DON'T QUIT
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit -
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a person turns about
When they might have won had they stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow -
You may succeed with another blow.
Often the struggler has given up
When he might have captured the victor's cup;
And he learned too late
When the night came down,
How close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out -
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -
It's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit.
