December is a good month to discuss mental health. It is a month filled with parties and celebrations for many, but a time of loneliness and isolation for others.
At the 2023 International Assembly, Past President Gordon McInally proposed that Rotary make mental health a priority. He talked about why this issue was so personal for him. He was overwhelmed by the response. McInally said, “In the days and months afterward, I was even more impressed with the way Rotary members freely shared with me the challenges they faced — and I was humbled by their bravery.
That made me think: This is exactly what Rotary is all about. Our clubs and our global community create opportunities for members to be their whole, authentic selves in the name of Service Above Self.
We show each other comfort and care. We share with friends not just the good times and triumphs, but also the moments when nothing is going right. At our best, we create a place where we can freely ask each other: How are you? How are you really?”
I want to thank Stacey, Tashunda and Mojy for planning a wonderful Christmas party for our club on December 5. I thought of that shared experience when I read this paragraph from McInally’s statement: “We have this unique ability to connect people and cultures — to give hope and receive it through our acts of kindness. It is who we are. And now is the time to build on this potential to expand this culture of care within Rotary and to the world.”
I was able to connect with members at the party in a way that regular club meetings don’t allow. I am sure many of you had that same opportunity. Let’s build on this connection.
As I was reading through some tips to support mental health and well-being, I took note of this tip: Invest in intentional, meaningful relationships that build a sense of belonging.
As we work to build our Family of Rotary, let us keep in mind something I hold as a takeaway from the 2024 Rotary International Convention. Service Above Self does not mean service without self. It is necessary that we check on the well-being of our local club members.
Is someone you know missing in action? Check on them to see how they are doing. Let’s work on the things that are often considered taboo. They are important to our mental health.
