Canseco and the Rotary Hymn

It has been said that music has shaped cultures and societies around the world. This is so true. However, there are situations where it is the prevailing culture that shapes or influences the song – its tempo, beat, and lyrics. Such is the case of the Rotary Hymn composed by musical genius and Past President George Canseco.

Indeed, it was the culture and rich history of Rotary which shaped the song. It was Rotary’s sway and impact on the composer’s life which led and enabled him to write the beautiful lyrics, the beautiful and cascading words that mirror and articulately express the innermost thoughts and mission of a true Rotarian.

Truly, when Past President George wrote the Rotary Hymn, he was already influenced, molded and shaped by the richness of Rotary’s history, values, and the veritable impact of the latter’s various projects in the community. The hymn, therefore, was so ably and perfectly written by a Rotarized and uber talented music composer.

The hymn rightly underscores the imperative of building “a bridge for tomorrow's youth,” as well as the importance of these laudable effort being fueled and “strengthened by nothing but the truth.” Yes, nothing but the truth because, as Past President George elegantly puts it, we need to pursue our quest and live our lives with faithful compliance with the Four Way Test.

What is more, the hymn emphasizes on peace, on joining our hands in fellowship because “there’s no reason to divide.” Again, yes, there is no reason for petty divisions, there should be no room for politicking and misunderstanding. All Rotarians must see each other as equals, as friends, and as comrades in service.

Mr. Canseco, the quintessential songwriter, is a true Rotarian who has given us not only bequeathed us with a hymn to sing, but a serious thought to ponder and timeless reminder to live by. Let us allow ourselves to be constantly reminded that:

With the Four Way Test We'll pursue our quest And if we, in a way help obtain Peace in the world Then we won't have lived in vain.

Life is short. Let us live each day in peace and harmony. Let us purposively seek to obtain peace in the world, but first in ourselves and with our brothers in our beloved Rotary Club of Manila.

Raoul C. Creencia, Editor-in-Chief, balita