Dear Fellow Rotarians,

For Vocational Service Month, I am dressed in kurta pajama typically worn by Indian men on formal occasions. Of course, the clothes themselves do not make me Indian. Rotary is rich in its cultural diversity, and it is useful for Rotarians to be aware of cultural differences in order to conduct business, as well as carry out the ideal of service. For example, in some countries, including India , shaking one's head from side to side may mean yes. To many Westerners, the same gesture signifies disagreement.

In whatever way Rotarians carry out their business, what is uppermost in their minds is not so much the business transaction itself, but making sure the needs and circumstances of all involved are fairly considered. This month, I urge all Rotarians to contribute to society through their businesses and professions. You can do so by providing job opportunities for young people, especially the disadvantaged and the disabled. Consider sponsoring a career information conference as part of that effort.

Another way is to organize a district-level event to recognize Rotarians who have contributed to their communities through their jobs and encourage others to do the same. For example, a restaurant proprietor who was recognized by his club by giving food to the poor inspired his district to set up a food bank.

You can also focus on vocational service by encouraging Rotarians to join Rotary Fellowships, many of which are based on occupations; promoting memberships growth in open classifications; and launching a vocational information series in which club members start each meeting with a five-minute talk about their jobs.

But however creative or innovative you are about vocation service, it is equally important to share with your local business community our venerable Four-Way Test. I know of Rotarians in Africa who have even circulated copies of The Four-Way Test among members of their national parliament. Likewise, a framed copy of the Declaration for Rotarians in Businesses and Professions on your office wall can help inform the public of the high ethical business standards practiced and promoted by Rotarians.

And let us not forget the Rotary Volunteers program, which provides additional opportunities for Rotarians to use their expertise in medicine, agriculture, technology, and other professions to help individuals and families around the world.

So as we prepare to celebrate our centennial, let us use vocational service to LEND A HAND to all communities in need, at home and abroad. As the German poet Goethe tells us: "Treat people as if they are what they ought to be, and you will help them become what they are capable of being."

Jonathan Majiyagbe
President, Rotary International

 

 
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