|
27-D1 District Governor
Neil Winchell
neilwinchell@centurytel.net
Most Lions readily identify themselves as local citizens, actively engaged in community service. That is great, as the vast majority of your time and effort is given to meet needs in your local community, but sometimes that focus can prevent us from seeing the bigger picture. There are Lions who never get involved in anything outside their local communities, and they are missing opportunities to grow and appreciate what Lionism is all about. Lion Clubs International comprises a big family, and if you don't meet and interact with other members of your family, you may become isolated and miss opportunities for personal growth and celebration of shared accomplishments. When you are wearing your Lions pin, no matter where you go, someone will recognize the pin and say to you, “Hey, I am a Lion, too”, and they will want to know where you are from, how long you have been a Lion, and what your club does to meet community needs?
A few club members participate in zone meetings, and many will attend neighboring clubs activities, but few make the effort to really learn about Lions at district, state, and national forums. Over the past several years, I have spoken to Lions who attended their first District Convention, and they made comments like “Wow, I didn't know Lions were involved in that”, “The speakers were so inspiring”, and “I met a lot of people who are doing great things in their communities, and I picked up a lot of ideas on things we can do better in our own club”.
When you attend a District Convention, you really see how our organization works and how decisions are made. You get to vote on district officers and select sites for bowling, curling, and future conventions. You also get to mingle with fellow Lions from the other fifty four clubs, and meet dedicated people who are giving of their time and effort to make their individual communities, the state, and the world a better place to live. When you attend, you get to see local club presidents, secretaries, and treasurers individually honored for their service, and you have a really good time.
After experiencing a District Convention, Lions are often inspired to attend State and even International Conventions, where you learn what the concerted efforts of almost 1.4 million members can accomplish. You may decide to attend a separate forum, like the USA/Canada Forum, where renowned speakers present, and where a great variety of workshops are offered.
Once you attend any of these events, you will see what you have been missing, and may find the skills to help you be a better Lion.
|
