There is no doubt about it; we are in challenging times. Aren’t we all asking ourselves, “What problem could possibly be more unexpected than COVID-19?” We’re having some struggles and challenges worldwide. It seems that no one is immune to the current situation. However, we are not without hope.
Virtually every great event, invention, milestone and great victory that has happened throughout history, has happened as a result of people who are willing to move forward to overcome a difficult situation.
I told the following story in a previous message. I’d like to share it again. A few years back, one of my adult children was going through a tough period of time. In talking with her, she was comparing herself to an arrow. She said, “No matter how far I get pulled back, my direction is forward.” As soon as she said that, I knew that she was going to be okay. It’s become one of my favorite metaphors.
At times of trouble and challenge, I think that it’s important to lean on the right words and to find the right wisdom for the situation. The right perspective will help to get everyone through these challenging moments in our lives. It can help us define who we are. We need to know that there will be light at the end of the tunnel. We are in a real challenge and we’re collectively doing the right thing. We’re moving forward and we’re helping those in need. This is a unique situation that is still hard to believe. We need to realize that each challenge equips us for our next challenge. The experience enhances our capacity to do more and to become more. It expands our humanity so that we can do more for others as well as ourselves.
My dear friends… your contributions are invaluable. I want to thank the many heavy lifters in our club. You know who you are. You give of your time and skills in moments of need. You’re not afraid of heavy lifting when and where it’s needed. Rotarians are people who step up to make a difference. In our most sincere form, we want to help others wherever we can. We’re not in a club just because of business; we’re in it to make a difference and to leave things better than we found them. We’re ready to help in times of need.
People on a whole are rising to this challenge. As I’ve mentioned before, I believe that we are passing a much needed test for humanity. We’re coming together to help one another against a common adversary. And through it all, our actions will inspire hope for the future and comfort and support to those who need it.
“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” – John Wesley
Yours in Rotary,
Tony Parziale