So once, twice, three times, and I'm sure once more – I hit that
snooze alarm that cold December Thursday morning. As I dragged my body through my
morning routine, I wondered to myself, "who in their right mind wakes up this
early, while these glorious minutes for sleeping are wasted on being
awake?" I arrived at Sven Erickson's
lower level (now the Keg) five minutes late (as per usual!) and got my answer. I
am sure my appearance made some people look twice as I walked in, but I was warmly
welcomed but also in shock; not only were people willing to get up at this
ghastly hour, but they also seemed genuinely happy about it. After gulping down
a pot of coffee and chatting with these strange people, I actually started to
enjoy my time. People were laughing and talking and it seemed like a relaxed
atmosphere.
As the vast majority of my presentations
have been to youth, speaking to the business community had me a little on edge,
but how can you go wrong when you speak from your heart? What I realized then and now, is that Rotary
offered an opportunity for people who work in the community to get to know
others, have fun, and take part in international and local projects. After my presentation
and then being invited back to enjoy breakfast a couple more times, I realized
that Rotary offered a venue that fit some of my perspectives for change on this
planet and drew me in to be a Rotarian. First, Rotary isn't religion based. During
and after my presentations, I am often asked what organization or church sponsored
me to go to Africa. It concerns me that most not-for-profit humanitarian
organizations have religious undertones. I wanted to do something that didn't
preach, was open to multiple viewpoints, and achieved great humanitarian work
across the planet. Second, I believe capitalism is not a bad economic policy,
but I don't like the capitalism that exists today; without ethics. I believe
that Rotary stands strong on the platform of hard work, individual success --
but humanitarian capitalism; taking what you need and giving back what
you can. These are two strong reasons why I joined Rotary (even though meetings
are at 7 am!) but if it wasn't for the people that have made it enjoyable to
attend with lots of laughs and inclusion of difference, I don't think I would
have joined. So thanks to all of you who make getting up before the sun rises
an enjoyable experience