Posted by DG Fay Campbell
President-elect Shekhar Mehta's vision is "Serve to Change Lives," I thought to myself, how do I bring you this message from Sekhar. You are already committed to serving; this why you are here. So, I thought, let me look at the word Serve and what it says.
S E R V E
 S
: support Show your support by actively listening. Listen to what is being said in word as well as body language. New and creative ideas may come from the most unlikely sources. A new member will see Rotary with a fresh set of eyes and will not be burdened by experience. Their ideas and vocational experiences may be just what you need to increase membership and start interesting new projects that will genuinely make a difference.
 
 E: expand We expand our reach locally and internationally as we connect with those we meet in our communities and around the world. Rotary has had a membership of 1.2 million members for the last two decades. When we extend a hand and connect with other organizations, we will. Expand our abilities to do worthwhile projects. Some of us, if the COVID restriction permits, will have an opportunity to improve our environment with Rotary Great Lake Watershed Clean-up. Use your imagination and get OUT into your local community to make a difference. It can be cleaning up around a waterway, park, side of the road or neighbourhood. While out in the fresh air, expand your contacts and extend the Rotary hand.
 
R: Respect those we serve. We, here, are so TRULY fortunate to live and thrive in our safe communities. We have clean water at the turn of a tap, a good education for ourselves and our children and grandchildren, food security, good health care and a roof over our heads. Sometimes those we serve are not so fortunate. With some misfortune, or by way of birth or geographic location, we could be in the same position. They deserve respect too.

V -volunteers with a vision for a better world; that is what Rotarians do. You may think that the small things that you do not make much of a difference. Consider this: "Does a single mosquito in the bedroom make a difference when you are trying to sleep?" (Pause!) PE Shekhar Mehta said, "each one brings one" This will help Rotary grow. While I support this wholeheartedly, I would encourage you to listen to the potential invitees because the club that works for you may not be suitable for that potential invitee. I would encourage them to visit different Rotary clubs to find a club that matches their needs and personality.
 
E: equality, empowerment, and encouragement. I believe in these three words. Everyone is equal in Rotary, regardless of race, religion, sex, Politics, or vocations. In Rotary, we empower people to learn leadership skills and give them opportunities to make a difference in their local and the larger global communities. We encourage Rotarians to give generously of their skills and talents to make a change in their own lives and the lives of others.  Looking forward to the journey ahead as we "Serve to Change Lives".