“SERVICE ABOVE SELF”
By Ron Stakem
“Service Above Self” is the motivating motto and the shared common duty of all Rotarians in the world. It is a bold challenge, a big “ask.” That is especially true now when so many people, home and abroad, face a myriad of life’s pressing uncertainties. Our renewed effort of selfless service are needed now as much as ever. By making that personal effort to serve our fellowman we add value to the lives of individuals and to the communities in which they live. In return, we are rewarded with a fulfilling sense of personal accomplishment and, as is often the case, we make friends and have fun together all along the way. Somehow, it matters less what we do together as Rotarians as long as our joint effort is guided by our “Four Way Test.” So, thank you, all Rotarians, for your past service. Now, please join with me to recommit and resolve in 2026 to again serve in some way, personally and financially, by offering generously of your time, treasure, and many talents to enhance the lives of others.
How can you serve? Well, the existing committee activities of our Club 29 are many and varied, and all are worthy. If in the past you have not been active in committee work, please join one or more. Even if you have been a regular committee participant, maybe join another committee or even start a new activity. In either case, ask a Rotarian friend to partner with you in joining a committee. Stretch beyond your “comfort zone.” If your personal situation permits, do more than you have in the past. The Rotarian monthly magazine is filled with stories of the amazing good that Rotary does in local communities, large and small, all over the globe. Maybe now is the time for you to become active, or active again, in an international program of our club. When you put your mind to it, you will certainly find your path to “Service Above Self.”
In recent years, the “how” for me it has been the two projects of the Service Saturday committee: 1) operating a water stop on the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon near mile marker 21 along N. Classen Blvd on marathon race day which will be Sunday, April 26, 2026; and 2) helping the Lynn Health Institute by doing chores at their Community Garden on the former Chesapeake campus by planting, tending, and harvesting vegetables of all kinds (and some fruit) for distribution to individuals and organizations in need. We plan on three or four Saturday morning workdays in 2026. If interested in learning more, look for announcements from me or co-chair, Ron Suttles, or contact one of us.
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