"Friends, I’m honored to have this new role. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to collaborate so closely with each of you.
Bob Slavin, who has the unenviable task of listening to my rambling banter at Dog Day year after year, said to me at the end of last year’s festivities these truthful words “Ken, you gotta get some new jokes.”
I’ve been thinking long and hard about this and, at last, I think I’ve got one:
“To err is human; To GRRR -- canine.”
I’m thinking this might be the unofficial theme of my administration! Being human, you will find that I err frequently. And because each of you is a human too (and not a canine) I ask that you please withhold your ‘grrrs’ whenever possible!
On a more serious note, I want to relate some words that resonate deeply with me today. American philosopher and theologian Robert Byrne said “The purpose of life is a life of purpose."
As a non-observant, non-religious Jew, I find that orthodox Jews often try to recruit me. They try to entice me to their way of life by promising me that their life quest is the same as my own—happiness. But I’m not sure that happiness is enough of a life goal. Happiness is certainly a side effect of Purpose. But Purpose is not necessarily a consequence of happiness. Even more than happiness, I believe our innate desire is to find meaning and significance is our journey on this planet; Purpose. Rotary International not only embodies this principle but also empowers individuals like us to achieve our Purpose through service, leadership, and global fellowship.
Beyond its global impact, Rotary offers each member a profound opportunity—an opportunity to discover and fulfill their life's purpose.
For many, the journey towards understanding Purpose can be elusive. We often find ourselves questioning our existence and wondering how we can make a meaningful impact in a world that sometimes feels chaotic and uncertain. Rotary provides a structured, illuminated pathway to achieving Purpose.
First, Rotary encourages us to serve others selflessly. "Service Above Self " is not just a motto; it's a guiding principle that teaches us the true essence of empathy and compassion.
Second, Rotary nurtures leadership skills. As we engage in projects, chair committees, or take on leadership roles within our club, we develop essential skills such as communication, collaboration, and strategic thinking. These skills are not just valuable in Rotary but are transferable to all aspects of our lives—our careers, families and personal endeavors. One goal of my administration will be to encourage that more of us undertake leadership roles.
Third, Rotary fosters global fellowship. By connecting with fellow Rotarians from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and professions, we expand our worldview and learn to appreciate the richness of human diversity. This global network of friendship and collaboration amplifies our impact and enriches our understanding of what it means to be a global citizen with a shared responsibility for humanity.
Achieving our life's purpose through Rotary International is not a solitary journey but a collective endeavor. Each Rotary project, each exchange of ideas, each moment of fellowship brings us closer to realizing that our Purpose is intertwined with the well-being of others.
Rotary serves as a constant reminder that our actions, no matter how small, ripple through time and space, shaping the world for generations to come. Whether we are planting mangroves, teaching financial literacy, eradicating disease, or providing clean water to a third-world community, each endeavor is a step towards a life of purpose—a life where our existence is defined by what we give, not just what we gain.
Rotary offers us an opportunity to live a life of purpose—a purpose driven by service, guided by integrity, enriched by diversity, and empowered by leadership. Let’s embrace this opportunity together."
Ken