Turning the Wheel of hope & service
Dear Friends in Rotary,
As December casts its nostalgic glow, it brings with it a time of reflection and renewal — a season to cherish the bonds of family, friendship and the camaraderie of our Rotary family. In the quiet moments, let us marvel at what Rotary allows us to achieve: the transformation of goodwill into impact, the turning of compassion into action.
This month Rotary’s focus on Disease Prevention and Treatment reminds us of the world’s inequities in health. It’s a stark truth: over 400 million people lack access to basic care. Yet, through our projects — eradicating polio, raising awareness on chronic conditions, and providing vital interventions — we remind the world that Rotary’s wheel never stops turning, bringing hope where it is needed most.
Our enduring emblem is more than a symbol; it is a call for action. Every spoke, every cog represents the power of collective effort of individuals who together move mountains. As this year draws to a close, let us reflect on the lives touched and the future brightened by the work we have undertaken together.
Our greatest strength lies in our members. Retention is not a passive process; it thrives on connection, inclusivity and engagement. A kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or a simple act of recognition can reignite enthusiasm and ensure that no member feels neglected or unappreciated. A wheel turns best when all its parts work together in unison.
December also brings a call to leadership. Clubs must now elect their boards, laying the foundation for the Rotary year ahead. Leadership is not simply a duty; it is a privilege, a chance to inspire and to steer the course of service. To those stepping forward, remember: your success lies not in the solitude of leadership but in the unity of purpose you inspire in others.
Rotary endures because it stands on principles that do not falter — fellowship, ethics, tolerance and service above self. As we look to the New Year, let us reaffirm these ideals, and keep our wheel turning constantly. Collectively, there is nothing we cannot achieve. Let’s continue to create magic into the new year and beyond. Vidhya joins me in wishing you and your family a very healthy, happy, joyous and fulfilling 2025.
Raju Subramanian
RI Director, 2023–25
