Last month I wrote about the fact that we had about 3 feet of snow from a storm, and a mere few weeks later in Punxsutawney a groundhog named Phil gave us the exciting news that Spring is closer than we anticipate based on the extremely technical analysis of not seeing his shadow.  Time will tell, but for a moment I found my third eye succumbing to the beauty of what Spring brings, yet also realizing the irony of groundhog Phil's prediction during a day when it was 22 degrees. 

 

Breaking down this thought a little further, life, at its basic level, is a rather ironic.  Whether it's the thought of Spring on a cold day, Christmas in July, or the temporary pause during a battle for both sides to celebrate a religious holiday, it is the dichotomy of feelings, emotions, philosophies, decisions, or situations that are completely in opposition.  Sometimes, these polarities are used to tear us down.  We see it in present day politics as but one example.  If we have a different perspective than another on a particular topic, it is easy to fault the other's point of view, rather than listen to their thoughts, concerns, and reason behind their way of thinking. 

 

I could write a book focusing on the dark side of this but I prefer to focus on the positive side of this dichotomy because it's the bridge between the two that bring us together.  A few years ago Superstorm Sandy devastated the Jersey shore, but our Club response, along with many other Rotary Clubs, came together to support the rebuilding of communities.  Last year the Nepal earthquake, resulting in over 2 million homeless, prompted one of our own to begin a pledge to monetarily help that community get back on its feet. 

 

As Spring comes to life, let's focus on the positive side to this equation because this is what we do and who we are. We beautify the community with flowers.  We support organizations that make a difference.  We help high school students learn about career opportunities.  We bring Christmas in July.  We provide water sanitation to Kenya. We build bridges.  We are truthful.  We are fair.  We create leaders.  We are service above self.  We are Rotary.

 

March is filled with yet another lineup of wonderful programs, as we have speakers from Dickinson College, the Army War College, the Central PA Youth Ballet, and the Historical society to keep us educated and engaged.

 

As always, I thank all of you for what you do.