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If I’m being honest, I’m someone who naturally looks for ways not to change. I value routines and familiar processes, and I don’t rush toward the unknown just because it’s new.

And yet, as President, my goals include introducing new ideas, improving how we operate, keeping our meetings relevant, and expanding the Rotary experience for all of us. There’s a bit of irony in that — someone who prefers the familiar is tasked with leading innovation.

But I do believe in growth. I believe in strengthening our club, trying new approaches, and creating a Rotary experience that is vibrant and forward-looking. And if I feel some hesitation while stepping into change, it’s only natural that others do as well. That hesitation isn’t resistance — it’s human nature.

At times, when new ideas meet uncertainty or when inexperience slows progress, I feel a moment of frustration — not with people, but with the possibility of missing something valuable. I can see what might be possible on the other side of the discomfort, and I want us to reach that place together.

So how do we make change feel more comfortable — maybe even enjoyable?

One way might be approaching ideas with curiosity instead of conclusions, treating new initiatives as small experiments rather than permanent decisions, and celebrating the incremental improvements that help Rotary stay fresh and engaging. I know there are other ways too, and I’d love to hear your ideas.

Because our strength is in growing together.

We don’t have to love every change, or adopt every idea. We simply need to be willing to explore possibilities.

Rotary has thrived for more than a century because members were open to adapting, stretching, and imagining something better. Nearly every step forward began with someone saying:

“Let’s try.”

So this year, let’s try — thoughtfully, gently, and together.

Let’s stay open to ideas that strengthen our club and deepen our impact.

Whether change comes easily to you or not at all, we move forward as one Rotary family — expanding what’s possible, step by step.