24 August 2007

Rotaract Intelligence - Chapter 1

To Know Rotaract, Is To Love Rotaract

Do the above title sound familiar? I borrowed it from a rather memorable Tourism Malaysia catch phrase or slogan from the 80's, and perhaps some of you (old enough) may have remembered ;-)

Rotaract should not be just a youth organization established for the purpose of fellowship, membership and international recognition. Rotaract has to be more than that to you should you really wish to benefit from its true purpose. Rotaract should be your way of life! Yes, as hype or religious as it may sound, I'm speaking from the bottom of my heart.

I'm bringing the context of love into Rotaract here. Nothing superficial.



As I've mentioned in my previous writings, we took the pledge of Rotaract membership on various reasons and intentions. But did we do it out of a sincere desire or merely an infatuation? To love is an unconditioned feeling we have that transcend all creed or code. For love, we will prioritize and sacrifice.

When I hear of Rotaractors leaving (i.e. resigning) from the club, it gives me much impression that such individuals has never been in love with Rotaract or has giving up hope in loving this organization. "How could this be?", I often asked myself in dismay. Are Rotaractors not loving people, or have they been too pre-occupied with other things that they forgot to love their fellow members? Is Rotaract too difficult to be loved, or it should not be loved at all?

What I'm about to share here are tried and tested 'Lovable Actions' for each Rotaractor to consider. And if you still haven't noticed, I've always champion that we (the members) make Rotaract. Otherwise the name and round symbol with a distinctive 'R' will be meaningless.

1. Find at least one characteristic of Rotaract that you truly like.

It may be the people, its organizational purpose or objective, the projects and activities organized. Reaffirm yourself constantly that this (or these) are the things I love about Rotaract. Remember, love is ignited from a spark of likeness.

2. Make someone's day!

Find someone who needs a helping hand in anything, a word of support, a good ear, or even a lift - and make their day. But first, you need to keep in touch and be in touch. Oh remember - what goes around, comes around.

3. Just be there

Become engaged with all your heart in whatever you do or say - and be a friend! We give our 100% in every situation. Better yet, go the extra mile for that someone.

4. Be a friend

Don't just consider a Rotaractor as a member of a club. Let this individual be a part of your social and even personal circle. Share knowledge, experiences, and even responsibilities in Rotaract. Have I not mentioned before about service through fellowship?

5. Giving in, Getting out
There are times we may need to give in to others - just to ensure relationships stays intact. And there are times we have to put real effort in getting out of misunderstanding - so that the bonding is not stressed too much.

6. Forgive and forget
We are all human. Mistakes, although not encouraged are bound to happen. It usually takes a sincere apology, or an act of rectification to mend straining relationship. In more severe circumstances, a neutral peace-maker.

To conclude this chapter of Rotaract Intelligence, I shall borrow (and modified) yet another popular catch phrase.

Breath Rotaract. Think Rotaract. Speak Rotaract!

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