Each day seems to bring a new surprise in this crazy world we now live in. Nations, states and economies are shut down to a standstill. There are restrictions on travel, working, eating out and human contact. All the things we treasure and encourage as Rotarians and assume are part of our daily life. Everything normal seems to be temporarily put on hold. A week and a half ago (seems so much longer) when we took a vote on whether we should continue to meet, the process taught me one important thing. While I did not think it was a good idea to continue and felt like it would soon be too dangerous to our most vulnerable, an overwhelming number of our older more vulnerable members wanted to continue to meet. Rotary connections, our close friendships, and the social camaraderie we share at Rotary are important. They contribute to a better way of life for each of us and all the people that we serve. While we have had to temporarily cancel our weekly meetings, I look forward to meeting again and rejoicing with my friends who make life so much richer from just knowing you and associating with you weekly. The dedication of the great women and men of the Mesa West Rotary club inspires me, and encourages me to be a better citizen, a better community humanitarian, a better man.  I am an optimist and have hope and confidence in the future—hope in the resiliency of America and the good people I know throughout the world. This challenge will bring us even closer together, and hopefully even more prepared for other challenges to come. But through all this, it is comforting to have a club and a world full of Rotarians that I can cherish as friends, knowing they make a difference in the lives of others. Little things that people do make a difference. I was surprised by how much my spirits were lifted when I heard Neil Diamond’s remake of Sweet Caroline into Hands…washing hands (https://youtu.be/sPLgsV_Ms3Q ).  Whatever little things you can do to lift others in anxiety and need will make a big difference. Things will return to a new more normal lifestyle. It may not be exactly the same, but life will return. And we will enjoy it all the more. Reach out by text or phone or social media to your Rotary friends and those in need. And most of all, treasure and enjoy this unique opportunity with your loved ones in your homes. Our thoughts, prayers and service go out to all of you!

I have been a financial investor for many years.  In this business, "You win some, and you lose some."  I've done plenty of both.

 

But, I have been affiliated with Rotary for many years longer.  Dad was also a financial investor.  He joined Mesa Rotary in 1941 and had well over 50 years of "Perfect attendance" before his passing... always "making up" when out of town.  He took me along to Rotary whenever possible.  I especially liked the annual Fathers and Sons Rotary Day at the old Rendezvous Park in downtown Mesa where the Cubs used to play.  Dad always told me that "Rotary was a great investment."  I wasn't sure then, but now know exactly what he meant.

 

I joined Mesa West Rotary in 1974.  Since then I've "made up" attendance hundreds of times at international clubs including Europe, Mexico, Central and South America.  (The inset picture features me at the Rotary Monument in Coquimbo, Chile, 1969.)

 

And, after all these years as a seasoned investor, what's my advice for assured success??

 

"Rotary is a Great Investment."

 

And, what's the secret to this success??

 

"Service Above Self"

 

Darl J Andersen

April 1, 2020

 

PS, I look forward to another 50 years of Rotary service.

Lo Weisner has invited Mesa West Rotarians to visit the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown virtually.  They meet Tuesdays at Noon. Click this link for the Zoom Webinar to join in the meeting each week at noon (which would be 11:00 AM in Arizona):  https://zoom.us/j/709260721.

 

John Pennypacker - Talked to my son Monday. He and his soon-to-be 14-year-old son were playing golf the other day - playing from the same tees. They were tied thru 14 holes. My son shot 75 and Ty shot 78; he is breaking 80 consistently now. Oh, they played in 3 hours and 10 minutes - walking a somewhat hilly course. I can still remember when Jay broke 80 for the first time, and the last time I beat him. Happy memories!

 

Jack Rosenberg - Yesterday, I got released from Physical Therapy. My recovery is moving in a positive direction. I want to thank everyone, that has kept in touch, as well as keeping me in your prayers.

 

Ed Koeneman - I'm looking forward to this week's club meeting.  I've been Zooming with my students since we returned from spring break.  Please contact me if anyone needs troubleshooting help getting set-up with Zoom.  See you all soon!

 

Terry Cowan - I was governor of District 6220 in Northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan in 1978-79.  My conference was in Appleton at a venue owned by former Green Bay Packer Left Guard Fuzzy Thurston.  I was told by many that the conference was a hit and it was all I could have hoped for.  I even appointed myself the song leader for the conference.  Most of our clubs were singing clubs; common back then.  Not so common now.  We closed the conference with a song, or, at least I thought it was closing.  After the song, the president of my club, Steve Beyer, said he had an announcement.  He and others from my club were making me a Paul Harris fellow on the spot.  Since they didn't have a lapel pin, the International President's Representative, Ben Hormel took his off and pinned it on me.  I still have the pin and treasure the moment.  I wear it with my past district governor pin at all Rotary events.  What a dynamite closing to a governor's conference.

 

Bob Zarling - I’m happy because there are still students wishing to enter the vocational healthcare professions in this time of uncertainty and the unknown new future.

• Social media to keep in touch with family and friends:
• Beautiful Arizona weather to be able to enjoy our backyards, deserts and mountains, albeit while distancing.
• Rotary for an avenue to be of service to those in need.
• Time for reflection.
• More family time.
• Knowing what to be thankful for and who to be thankful for.
• TP!