Why I Am A Rotarian
OCTOBER 24, 2006
 Most
Rotarians at some time in their flirtation with Rotary ask
themselves: “Why am I a Rotarian?” This question arises even
after the flirtation becomes a commitment and a way of living
that serves as an excellent model for family and business, which
perhaps is reason enough to embrace Rotary.
However, there is a more complex
underlying principle that transcends mere ethics and
philanthropy and speaks to a basic need we all have: to help
others facing hardship.
Rotarians for their part seem to
have discovered that there exists a commonality among people of
all faiths to do good in the world, that there is good
fellowship in this commonality of purpose, a strength in numbers
and concerted action, and that charity is served when translated
into humanitarian service.
Rotary makes significant inroads
in alleviating the misery that afflicts the human condition. The
plight of the poor and the improvement of their lives is good
enough reason for being a Rotarian.
As Rotarians we cannot hope to
cure all the ills of the world, but through our efforts millions
of children who might have been crippled by polio are today
playing happily with their friends. Many more millions who may
have suffered famine, blindness, polluted water, and disease
have been fed, supplied with clean water and returned to health.
Countless others, especially girls, have been taught to read,
and by mastering this one skill, have had a veil lifted from
their eyes and have become educators of their own children.
Yes, I have over the years learnt
why I am a Rotarian and am proud to be one. I, and my friends
and fellow Rotarians, have found ways to use our talents and
spread love and tolerance among peoples.
Rotarians represent the finest
qualities that mark them as human and in this cynical world of
ours; I want to be one of them.
Rodney Mazinter
South Africa
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