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By Frank J. Devlyn , Past RI President (2000-2001)
and Friend of Rotary eClub One
As we prepare for the upcoming celebratory holiday season, I would
once again like to share some thoughts on why I am thankful to be a
Rotarian.
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First of all, I am thankful for the many good works of The Rotary
Foundation that each and every day changes lives around the world.
Even the smallest projects have a significant impact. The work of
The Foundation is truly Rotary's greatest legacy.
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I am thankful for and proud of Rotary's extraordinary effort to
eradicate polio worldwide. We are now so close to wiping this
scourge from the face of the earth and with the help of The Bill and
Melinda Gates Foundation and a new vaccine that is having dramatic
results, we are closer than every to reaching our goal.
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I am thankful for the countless water projects that are being
completed each and every day. Water is the source of life and
bringing clean water to every corner of the globe will do more to
eradicate hunger, disease, and death than anything else.
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I am thankful that in spite of the continuing world economic crisis,
Rotarians continue to support The Rotary Foundation and its programs
with their time, their talent, and their treasure thereby insuring
the The Foundation will continue to "Do Good in the World".
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I am thankful that we understand the importance of bringing literacy
to every child in order that they may not just survive but thrive
and have a real chance at a life worth living.
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I am thankful for the many Rotarians who respond at a moments notice
to help those who have been impacted by disasters. They are on the
front lines and their actions save countless lives. Their response
this year to the earthquake in Haiti, the floods in Pakistan and
other disasters have shown all of us how important Rotary is to a
world in crisis.
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I am thankful for our Ambassadorial Scholars and Peace Scholars who
are helping to change the world and bring about peace. Their
contributions to humanity and the peace building process are
immeasurable. They will be the leaders of tomorrow who are making a
difference today.
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I am thankful for the countless young professionals who participate
in our Group Study Exchange program and help build relationships
between countries of different cultures. They, too, are peace
builders.
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I'm thankful for the tens of thousands of Rotary volunteers who work
tirelessly on projects to make this a better world for everyone.
They, too, are peace builders.
There is much more I am thankful for but most of all I am thankful
for the fellowship and many friendships that I have made because of
Rotary.
In the coming weeks as you celebrate the holidays in your own way,
keep the work of The Rotary Foundation and Rotary International in
your hearts and minds and recommit to give it your full support so
we can continue to change the world. In this way, one person at a
time, one project at a time, one day at a time, working together we
will eventually bring about peace. |
