Peace appears to be an elusive goal and often one feels that total universal peace is a dream that cannot be realized. Perhaps this is true – but it does not mean that we should not take steps to increase the chances of peace.
When the basic needs of human beings are not fulfilled and when just staying alive are a herculean task, there can be no better way to promote peaceful existence than to ameliorate some of the problems.
Rotary comes into the picture through its varied programmes to promote peace. One of the most important and effective way Rotary can promote peace is to promote, practice and participate in service to the communities that are denied many of the basic needs of life. Yes, Peace Scholars, Youth Exchange and other programmes aim directly at promotion of Peace. However, at the grass root level, Rotary has to concentrate on improving the quality of life of millions of citizens.
If there is one important thing that Rotary teaches you, it is action. And when action (service) is enjoyed, it is fun. When there is fun, there is an increased desire to excel. Service multiplies when there is fun doing that service.
For everything that Rotary is – creator, pioneer, humanitarian genius and even a messiah, it remains an adaptable inventor, ready to mould into whatever s necessary to render effective service.
When communities feel safer, happier, wealthier and healthier, they will give time to think about peace. Nobody wants conflicts. Everybody wants to live a life that is productive, happy and useful. Rotary gives that opportunity to millions of communities worldwide to enjoy basic needs so that they can then, think about others. Rotary through service promotes Peace – and service is our strongest weapon to fight for Peace.