The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

I am still a relative newbie as compared to many of my esteemed RCM elders, but, I believe that I have experienced enough to qualify to share some sense with you. Through good times and bad, we learn. Hopefully we have learned during these recent weeks what we need to do to avoid the recurrence of our recent ugly experiences.

The recent spate of unfortunate developments -- unethical behavior leading to suspensions, membership resignations leading to even more turmoil -- were not unlikely given the circumstances we had. The all important question now is …..have we learned from these regretful events? The members who were recently disciplined manifested values contrary to those of Rotary. Values so misaligned, their actions demanded sanctions which led to confusion and uncertainty.

Today is as good a time as any for each of us RCM members to consider going into serious introspect. It is apropo to ask ourselves … do our values today still align with the values and the spirit of this Rotary movement that we joined? For any of you whose answer may not be a resounding yes, you should look deeper into your hearts and recognize that you could be a threat, even a significant impediment, to the fulfillment of the true Rotarian spirit and all the good that comes from that. You should consider, for the benefit of the rest, stepping aside and staying out of the way of meaningful Rotary initiatives.

The iconic Four Way Test and our oft repeated motto, “Service above Self”, clearly encourage the values expected of Rotarians. These resources, combined with clear guidance from our Club’s Constitution and By-Laws, which by the way we each took an oath to uphold, should give us cues on how to think and behave as we move on.

From our Four Way Test, we derive HONESTY, INTEGRITY (the TRUTH), SINCERITY and TRANSPARENCY. Supplement these values with being FAIR and JUST (to ALL concerned) and exuding utmost “DELICADEZA” in our thoughts, decisions and actions. “Delicadeza” includes several qualities among which are thoughtfulness, sensitivity and bringing forth your best social graces into the Rotary family.

“Service Above Self” is self-explanatory. I am sure all will agree that it refers to service while seeking nothing in return. For those who seek more than the opportunity to serve, then Rotary may not be the place for you. This is not the place to seek accolades, recognition and/or influence. RCM is an organization that gives us access to projects we can direct/course through our generosity and sharing. And in participating in those endeavors, we are guided and expected to make friends with all the members of the club. Yes, it may not be practical to expect that we may like all members, but, if you can bring sensitivity and your best social graces to the fore, we can maintain good working relationships and rewarding fraternization with all.

Our constitution and by-laws are more explicit as to how Rotarians should conduct themselves. It is in plain English to be easily understood. It provides clear guidance on how to deal with the decisions of the board of directors of the club. More importantly, this guidance encourages respect for these elected leaders of the club. This guidance also outlines a process to avoid unnecessary confrontations and regretful behavior. Disagreements are to be expected. Hence, a process to resolve disagreements is wisely included. It does suggest that even when we disagree, we can still maintain the poise and proper behavior expected of a Rotarian.

Our sources of inspiration and guidance omit discussions on monies. This suggests that sincerity and selfless generosity come foremost before considering the material value of the blessings that we shared. Good values and our character will pave the way to Rotary success. When we joined Rotary, we expected to contribute to its causes. Any contribution from the heart, in any form, is welcome.

I look forward to all RCMers, applying true Rotarian values in our work, in socializing and in giving. Doing so, we will regain the luster of the true Rotarian spirit. It took honest hard work over many decades to earn the reputation that RCM deserves. As the incumbent generation of RCMers, it is our duty and it should be our mission to enhance RCM’s image. May the guidance, the vision of Rotary’s founding fathers and those that followed after them lead us toward greater success. Peace, prosperity and the spirit of sharing be with all of us.