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Lions Clubs International District 105SW
August 2009 District Governor Lion Christine Rowe “LIONS ROAR” |
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It seems very strange to be writing my article for the second newsletter of this fiscal year without actually doing anything or meeting any of you as District Governor! This is because the International Convention was later than usual and arriving back in the country on 12th July and having to meet the editor’s deadline of 14th!!!! Having been to four previous Intentional Conventions, I was aware of the procedures, but I was not aware of the difference it makes going as a DG Elect!
First of all were the four days of seminars, and although all of MD105 were in the same group, (there were 30 in total) we enjoyed the company of DGE’s from The Netherlands, Egypt, Greece and the Lebanon. This enabled us to learn about ourselves, Leadership challenges, not to mention the wider aspect of Lionism and the experiences of Lionism in other countries and cultures. At lunch times we were mixed at our tables with Lions from other groups, and this enhanced our international knowledge. At the same time we made many friends from other countries.
The Convention itself was once again an experience not to be missed, with additional inspiration for us incoming 752 District Governors. The parade this year was amazing and brought the centre Avenue of Minneapolis to a standstill for nearly 4 hours with a continuous procession of floats, marching bands not to mention Lions from all around the world. The keynote speaker at the first plenary session was Colin Powell, a former U S Secretary of State. He spoke of how the Iron and Bamboo curtains were dropped, with great enthusiasm and a lot of humour. He is the founder of’ America’s Promise’, a partnership of businesses, youth-focused organisations and community leaders dedicated to the well being of young people. The Lions Humanitarian Award was presented to Father Chris Riley. He founded ‘Youth Off The Streets’, an organisation for young people who are homeless, drug dependant and victims of abuse; although based in Sydney he works in Indonesia.
The retiring International President normally receives a car from his District, but Al Brandel said that his current car was fine, and he would like to use the money to set up a Foundation to be used for young people to benefit. This was very enthusiastically received.
Taking the oath was a very emotional experience, and one that I shall always treasure, and when Peter and I removed each other’s ‘elect’ ribbons, the responsibility of the task ahead was all of a sudden realised
Erberhard Wirfs, our new International President, spoke of the planting of a Ginkgo sapling and how it needs care and nurturing to enable it to thrive and blossom into a sustainable resource. The most valuable resource Lions have, are our members. Our membership needs to grow, by extending new Lions Clubs and by inducting new, qualified Lions members. We need to be able to use all the talents of our members to provide service to our communities. Talents do not have to be professional in nature, as the simplest talent of all is probably the most important asset a Club can have. The person who can wash up, paint or put up signs and posters is as valuable as the managing director who is able to sort out the rota for the planned event! When we look for new members it is not important that our Club numbers grow, but to remember that each new member provides two extra hands with which to provide service.
Those of us who met Hilary Lister last month when she was in our District, were amazed at her inspiration and determination to complete her trip this year. She is an incredible example to us all on how to overcome adversity to attain one’s dream. I know she has had some setbacks with the travel plans, but I am sure that we all wish her well and hope that she completes her dream.
Now it is back to the business of guiding this wonderful District for the next year, which I hope will be an exciting challenge as well as a year of my life to remember with great affection.
Remember Lions R O A R !
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Christine |
