R Ian introduced DG John.
John grew up in Scotland, was a successful businessman in Canada. There was a lot more. Too bad if you were not there.
The Rotary Year Ahead
John made no apologies for his accent. Happens to sound like RI President Gordon McInnally.
John shared some of his inspiration from the DG training where over 500 new District Governors were trained. This year is not so much a new beginning, but a bridge building program to build on work started in the past. He wants to capture the reins and build on the good works already started, to provide continuity and advance the good works and ideas of past presidents.
One of these is to promote and develop Rotaract, to continue to build new leaders.
Also to empower girls and fully support women.
Continue to advance Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in all we do. To develop good ideas and strengthen partnerships.
END POLIO NOW! Wild polio virus found in some sewers of big cities, we have finish the fight and eradicate it. There is an Urgency to this.
John shared a story from RI Pres Gordon about a trip to far east in 2006, couple years after Tsunami devastated area and of a women he met who had lost everything and was prepared to give up. But Rotary was there and through Rotary's efforts, she found Hope. This memory lead to RI Pres Gordon's Theme for this year, 'Create Hope in the World'.
Hope brings lasting change to the world and change in ourselves. It helps us face the challenges that come our way, gives us courage to ask for help.
Mental Health is a big goal of Rotary this year, to breakdown the stigma and give people Hope and courage to ask for help. John said there is more to come on this front, stay tuned. John then shared another story of RI Pres Gordon who knew a young man, 'Ian' who grew up in Scotland like many young men, was successful but on a trip to US he committed suicide. Turns out Ian was Gordon's brother. Mental Health knows no boundaries, we can all be impacted. We need to help each other, Create Hope to heal from trauma and destructive actions. Remain open to change.
Seek peace in the world and in ourselves.
Create Opportunities so ordinary people can do extra ordinary things.
John asked if we would journey with him.
R Sandi from Trenton club thanked John for sharing and inspiring us.