Rtn. Ashok Mahajan

Reforms Starts with You

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Reforms Starts with You Dear Rotarians Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has" said Margaret Mead, the famous American author. The ripple effect starts with one. One person to say, "No" to corruption, one person to say, "ll pay all taxes to the Government; and one person to say, "No" to black money generation. This is what our country needs now and this is what the Prime Minister wants every citizen to do. As Rotarians, we all have taken a vow to serve the community, the people living everywhere wha need help, solace and comfort. More impartant than sharing our material wealth, is the sharing of our time, energy, passion, commitment and above all our love for the country. The best way to show our love for the country is to be that good example of a citizen who does not try to avoid or evade taxes payable to the government. As Rotarians, we are bound by the 4 Way Test and our vocational service avenue teaches us how to maintain very high standards in business and profession. As Rotarians, we are expected to express the truth of our character with the choice of our actions. Character is the source from which self-respect springs. People cannot be tax evaders or avoiders and still claim to have self-respect. Character is what you do when no one is watching. Good character, which includes all aspects of how we live in this life in this country, is not given to us. We have to build it piece by piece, by thought, by choice, by courage and by determination. India needs all the citizens to display these sterling qualities to regain the splendor among world nations. Our might need not be just reflected by the military arsenal we have in store. In fact, itis shown by the strong character of the citizens. Emperor Napoleon said, "I can defeat an army million strong; I cannot defeat a nation one strong." If everyone stands up and says, * 1 am India," who can defeat us? I want you to give more thought to the collective welfare of the people of our great country. Thoughts lead on to purposes and purposes go forth in action. It is well known that actions form habits and habits determine our character, Have you not wondered why corruption is rampant and have you not directly or indirectly encouraged it? Have we not sometimes avoided paying a small amount of sales tax and encouraged the trader to accumulate black money? Well, millions of people did this and result was that a society that should have been vibrant and energized enough to support 1.25 billion people, became dominated by few who had everything and many did not have anything. This situation had to change and sooner the better since any more disparity would have led more and more people being marginalized in the economy and history has shown what can happen if this situation arises. As Rotarians, we are taught to care about the world we do not see. Is it not imperative that we care about our country and people we see everyday. Ifeel that the capacity to care and act to correct the imbalances in our society is the thing which gives Rotarians their deepest significance. Do you know what should be your favourite part of your life is? It is the opportunity to live and do good. Forget yesterday, it has already forgotten you. Open your eyes and heart to a truly precious gift of today when you can do many things to have a great tomorrow!

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