A Life of Purpose The Gift of Rotary Itis true you may not have the power to create rainbows, sculpt waterfalls, paint sunsets, or bloom roses. These miracles are reserved for nature and the divine. But you do hold something just as powerful: the ability to touch hearts, to lft spirits, and to transform lives with your words, your compassion, and your smile. Within each of us lies the power to bring light into darkness. And I count myself as one of the most fortunate souls alive, for at a young age, I became a Rotarian. That single decision over 52 years ago has shaped the course of my life and given me more joy, meaning, and connection than I could ever have imagined Through Rotary, I've been given hundreds of opportunities to serve mankind not for applause, not for recognition, but for the simple and profound act of giving. I've seen hopeless eyes light up with gratitude. I've witnessed lives rebuilt, smiles returned, dignity restored Because of Rotary, I've been blessed to bring a smile to the faces of those burdened by despair. I've been a small part of a big mission to eradicate polio from the face of the earth, saving thousands of children from a lifetime of suffering. I've had the honor of helping children receive life-saving pediatric heart surgeries children who now run, laugh, and dream because someone, somewhere in Rotary cared. And beyond the service, Rotary has gifted me something equally invaluable: friendship. I have friends in countries I've never even visited. People who speak different languages, live different lives, but share the same spirit of service. They are family not by blood, but by heart To those who are searching for deeper meaning... to those who wish to live not just a long life, but a fulfiling one... to those who believe the world can be better, and want to be a part of that change I say: join Rotary. Itis more than an organization. It is a movement of kindness. A network of love. A chance to make your life count in the lives of others.