Our Lions past was also easier, our work, the communities and the world we supported was slower and less technical, less cynical, and more predictable. The legendary work of our past means we are respected, admired and trusted for what we do, how we do it and what we are. Society’s growth and change brings new directions for us to explore. We have been slow to respond to new ways and needs. We wil
l keep those essential and timeless values, ethics and purposes - that have served us so well and set us apart. Our organisation – all of us Lions – locally, nationally & internationally, are challenged to rethink, to reimagine and rise to that challenge! We can all start to learn, how we can stride confidently forward to our fresh and invigorated, future. Combining and uniting it with the very best parts of our formidable and magnificent yesteryears. Everybody knows how to be a good Lion. So, I ask, of every individual Lion to also open their minds and search for the possibilities that exist for our future success and growth. Our future will come from all of us! Working, thinking and being: one team! How! The reality of finding our new directions – as of this moment is every Lion’s responsibility. It is now Global Lions policy to encourage and listen to your ideas , your inspirations and your solutions. Speak up! Don’t keep it to yourselves. Take a fresh look at your communities and opportunities. How are they changing? What is different? How can we serve best? Let’s step out of our old box and rethink. Be brave. Share your inspirations with your fellow members, but also please share them with me, so we all get the opportunity to share great knowledge, grow and benefit. To do that simple thing is not just the theory of change, but the action of a great and dynamic team. The team we all deserve! I too needed inspiration for all this. So, for my emblem and personal District Governor’s pin I have chosen the Paua shell from my native New Zealand. The Māori believe the Paua brings connectivity and harmony to relationships and that the way the colours change and shift, signal change and transition. Those qualities and actions plus the basic kindness that is essential in everybody’s lives, represent my heartfelt vision for all our Lions team during and beyond the 2022 – 2023 Lions year.
