If you take a moment to read The Object of Rotary in our Guiding Principles, you realize it is a philosophical statement of Rotary’s purpose and the responsibilities of Rotarians. The concept of vocational service, this month’s theme, is rooted in the second object, which calls on Rotarians to encourage and foster:
- High ethical standards in business and professions
- The recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations
- The dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society
And there’s more!
As a Rotarian, how can you put these ideals into action? Consider these suggestions:
- Talk about your profession in your club and take time to learn about fellow members’ occupations.
- Use your skills and expertise to serve a community.
- Practice your profession with integrity and inspire others to behave ethically through your words and actions.
- Help young people achieve their career goals
- Guide and encourage others in their professional development.
By undertaking these activities, you bring vocational service to life. Vocational service is the essence of Rotary and serves as the foundation from which we Serve to Change Lives in our communities around the world.
By including men and women from diverse professions and backgrounds, Rotary recognizes the importance of all skills and occupations. A vibrant Rotary club reflects the businesses, organizations, and professions in its community, embracing diversity in experiences and perspectives. Your professional life and vocational service go together. Rotarians have a dual responsibility: to represent their occupations within their club and to exemplify the ideals of Rotary in their places of work.
Currently, I am aware of two Rotarians from our District, Alex Ray of The Common Man Family of Restaurants and Denise Castonguay, a long-time cooking partner, who have taken their professional culinary skills into the heart of the tornado devastation in Mayfield, Kentucky, to serve meals through volunteering with World Central Kitchen.
During a break, Denise and Alex pose for a selfie with another volunteer.
If you would like current information about how your club can contribute to response efforts in the USA, send me an email at RotaryRocks2021@gmail.com.
As we begin a new year together, let’s keep on Serving to Change Lives!
DG Mike