Procrastination . . . an odd word to begin my President’s letter, don’t you think? Why would I bring up the topic of procrastination?
As we continue in mankind’s third millennium on this planet, we need to stop and confirm our existence. Not in terms of wealth or fame, but in terms of accomplishment – as a spouse, a parent, a friend, and a professional. What have we, as individuals, truly accomplished that could possibly be remembered, or for that matter, should be remembered, after we’re gone? Or have we procrastinated, thinking that someday we’ll get around to fulfilling some notable achievement? And when we procrastinate or, worse, let someone else accomplish what we could have, we give up our right to make a difference. To quote a famous person from history, “A minority suffices to overthrow a state when the majority of the population has gone soft and lost its direction.”
Are we as individuals doing that, allowing someone else to take over because we procrastinated?
If we were to spend a few moments itemizing everything we have accomplished that we think confirms our existence, what would we write down – a cure for a major disease, an invention that has positively affected millions of people, or service for the betterment of mankind? But are these the things that really validate our being here? I think not.
I believe the little things – that the people outside your own circle of friends, relatives and acquaintances will never know about – make the difference and confirm your existence. Things like teaching a grandchild to ride a bicycle, mowing the lawn of the senior citizen down the street, telling your kids that you love them, mentoring a student or a new hire, and being respectful of everyone you meet.
As Sylvania Rotary embarks on the upcoming year, let each of us confirm our existence by consciously making a difference – on the job, at home, at our chosen place of worship, and in our community. Remember, what you do is a hundred times more important than what you say.
We have the unique opportunity to experience a lifestyle where mankind is better off than ever before in history. Let’s greet it with enthusiasm, optimism, energy, and good will. Let’s not take ourselves too seriously – and don’t forget to add some fun and a little humility.
Norm Koenigseker, PE
President, Sylvania Rotary
June 24, 2010
print this page