The Challenge to Change
This year our Lions, Lionesses and Leos are embarking on the process of renewal, building on the strongest traditions of our association while actively seeking out ways to improve to meet the challenge to change.
When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits,
I dreamed of changing the world;
As I grew older and wiser I realized the world would not change. And I decided to shorten my sights somewhat and change only my country. But it too seemed immovable.
As I entered my twilight years, in one last
desperate attempt, I sought to change only
my family, those closest to me, but alas
they would have none of it.
And now here I lie on my death bed and
realize (perhaps for the first time) that if only
I'd changed myself first, then by example I
may have influenced my family
and with their encouragement and support
I may have bettered my country,
and who knows
I may have changed the world.
Anglican Bishop
around 1100 A.D.
From the Crypts of Westminster Abbey
Change is not always easy, and the challenge is to begin with ourselves. When your Club Board meets and discusses the implications of “The Challenge to Change” relative to service projects, membership, leadership, or communications – we must all realize that change is only successful when it is adopted by the individuals who must implement the change. For that to happen, the change should be visualized by those same individuals. That is to say, that change - - change that will make your club stronger, your projects more meaningful in the community and today’s world, and your association more attractive to new members - - that very change, needs to be relevant to you and your community. That change needs to start with each of us.
Perhaps you haven’t invited anyone to join your club’s work projects lately - you can change that by simply extending the invitation.
Perhaps you feel stifled by doing the same projects year after year - bring a new idea to your executive, come prepared to share the details of your vision for change, and be open to the input of others.
Perhaps, it is time for your club to evolve, and strengthen its role and relevance in the community your serve. As with all change, someone has to be a leader who demonstrates initiative: don’t hold back – take up the challenge to change.
Dr. Patti Hill
International Director, LCI
