A ROTARY MOMENT

 

Our District Governor John Bosch, accompanied by his lovely wife, Maxine, visited our club last week.  In his prepared remarks, Gov. John challenged us on several fronts.  However, we would like to highlight something that was not in his well-received scheduled address to the membership.  After the presentation in a question-and-answer period, Rotarian Jim Jonson cited Gov. John's comment about having "Rotary Moments" and asked our guest to tell of his Rotary Moment.

What followed was a heart-warming account of how Gov. John met a child who had been in need of watch care and parenting.  He said a kind woman took the responsibility for this little girl who could have dropped through the cracks of society and lost.  As time passed, it was noted that this little girl took a fancy to a toy piano.  It was surprising to hear her pick out tunes from shows she had seen on TV or heard elsewhere.  Opportunities for piano lessons and other forms of support were given by his Rotary Club and now this little girl who is a fine young lady, is an accomplished pianist.  Further, a well-known professional musician, John Tesch was contacted.  Mr. Tesch provided funds to help in the purchase of a baby grand piano for the girl.  He even invited the girl to play his piano - something that was seldom allowed.

Gov. John related the story as giving him a "Rotary Moment".  We see how lives can be positively impacted through the efforts, financial support, and contacts by Rotary.  That little girl's life is forever changed.  In fact, those of us who attend the District Conference in May of 2008 will have a chance to hear the girl perform as part of the Conference program.

So it is appropriate to ask: "What was your Rotary Moment?".  Many of us have stories of ways in which our lives were changed as we have been personally touched by something that has been done by our Rotary Club or by others.  Give this some thought.  We are considering a program in which some of our members will give a short description of events that caused or led to a "Rotary Moment".

For those who do not yet feel they have had a "Rotary Moment", we assure you that yours is yet to come.  It is something to look forward to with great anticipation.  By participating in the many opportunities we have for "Service Above Self", Rotary Moments can be expected and enjoyed.  Our RI President Wilf Wilkinson has set forth the motto for this year: "Rotary Shares".  We would ask that you consider joining with two or three others of the club to share your Rotary Moment(s) in an upcoming meeting.

Our warmest good wishes are extended to each of you.

JoAnn and Dave