Third Quarter Review
Our district is experiencing a new concept this year. You, our members, and our district clubs, are fortunate to have three, yes three, SWIS District Governors this Optimist year, Maureen Crombie, Jo’El Pearlman and myself, Maxine Lane. We may all have different ways of sharing our dreams, ideas and beliefs; however, all three are committed to the Mission, Vision and Purpose of being an Optimist and we are dedicated to serving our Youth, our SWIS District and Optimist International. We invite you, the person reading this, to join with us in this commitment to make a better life for those that will follow in our footsteps.
You will notice I have changed my photo for these final thoughts from me. This is me with my great nephew, Pierce, who was blessed with his Heavenly Wings in November, 2021, at the innocent age of 7. I use this picture and the following content as a reminder what we, as Optimist, are all about and pledged to do when taking our oath. It’s all about being “Better Together” to make a positive difference in the lives of children, our communities and ourselves.
What do Optimist do and why? Ask friends to join you as an Optimist and when they ask, “What do Optimist do?”, share the following. It is not about being in a ‘club’, not about ‘meetings’, it’s about people who are dedicated to ‘Bringing out the Best in Everything we Do.’
The purpose(s) are many; however, the following is a summary:
*Develop optimism as a philosophy of life utilizing the beliefs of the Optimist Creed. Promote the following in the belief that giving of one’s self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life and the world.
- respect for law
- interest in good government and civic affairs
- promote patriotism and work for friendship among all people
- assist and encourage the development of youth
Optimism is at the heart of everything Optimists do.
*We foster a shared sense of hope and resilience,
*We encourage positive action within ourselves and our communities,
*We work through difficulties with the belief we can create meaningful change,
*We believe that those we serve and ourselves can reach our fullest potential.
Respect
*Through respectful interactions, we value the unique contributions and worth of every individual,
*We honor all people with dignity, compassion and care by believing in and supporting diversity and promoting a culture of belonging.
Integrity
*We uphold the highest standards of honesty, ethics and transparency in everything we do,
*We are accountable for our actions and follow through on our commitments,
*We conduct ourselves in all actions by doing what is right, even when it is difficult,
*We set a positive example and inspire other to follow.
Optimists are dedicated to "Bringing Out the Best in Kids" and do their part through community service programs. Since each location is autonomous and run by members in their community, Optimists have the unique flexibility to serve the youth of their area in any way they see fit. Optimist see a need in their community and react to it.
Although there is much turmoil in our country, we are within a very special, peaceful time of year. The gentleness of a glimmering snow fall, the twinkle of the holiday lights, the sounds of holiday music and last, however certainly not least, the “Reason for the Season”, the birth of our Savior. From Steve and myself, and of course our little miss Lizzie, we wish to each and every one of you, and your families, a Blessed Merry Christmas that you may share with family and friends and a Happy New Year.
