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"The Future of Rotary is in Your Hands"
The Rotary International theme for 2009/2010 has a reassuring ring as we move into the 80th year of Rotary International's presence in Singapore.
The focusing thought is to remind the incoming 75th Board of Directors (World War II resulted in inactivity for 5 years) and all Rotarians that any challenge can be overcome when all members of the club, and the movement, work together in the spirit of Rotary, friendship and unselfish giving.
The challenges this year are very real, indeed. When members are wondering if they are able to maintain their vocations, the very basis of their participation in the club, it is difficult to see how they can think about giving - be it time or money.
Nevertheless let us reassure our guests and friends not gathered here that give we will, aware of our motto "Service Above Self".
The real question is to which cause? There are many causes, some just tug at the heart strings but there are others more worthy but needing much consideration before their true value is realised.
Over the past decade, we have encountered major disasters, one after another. Each disaster had us reaching for our wallets but with the realisation that the money is either not going to reach in time to matter, or worse, not going to reach the ones it is intended for.
Perhaps we should this year think about being prepared for the next natural disaster, be it a flood, earthquake, drought or even another tsunami.
Let us consider putting our efforts into preparing to send at short notice, essential equipment and supplies. Water and medicine are two needs in any calamity. Providing water and health care have always been the nation's strength. Striking out in that direction would certainly be in line with the key areas of emphasis outlined by Rotary International President John Kenny - water, health and hunger, plus literacy.
Let us make a difference - the decision is indeed in our hands.
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