10/13/2026
Since Columbus sailed the ocean blue without a Rotarian to see him through; just think of what ole Columbus could do with dedicated Rotarians as his ship board crew!
Instead of maps that were vague and old, they’d have a strategic R I plan unfold.
They’d test every route, both near and far, by the guiding light of the “Four-Way Test” star: “Is it the truth? Is it fair to all?" They’d ask as they sailed through challenging squalls.
The Niña, the Pinta, the Santa Maria, would sail on the winds of a grand idea: no mutinous groans on the ship-deck floors, just R I Presidents - Directors and Boards assigning ‘selfless’ Rotary chores.
The crows-nest lookout would shout with delightful glee, “A new ‘Service Project’ yonder I see…";
Then when Columbus finally steps upon the shore, he wouldn’t just look for a gold-filled store; His Rotary Crew would hand out grants for clean-water wells, and thereby “Create Lasting Impact!”
And all would work for ‘PolioPlus’ until all could tell of placing “Curing drops on the tongues of the young and old”, for a brighter and healthier future for all to behold!
Yes Columbus and his Rotary Crew would fund a productive plan for ‘Conflict Resolution’ or even women’s clinics throughout the new land; yes all working hard convincing every critic with ‘Peace Fellowships’ and ‘Positive Mediation’, they’d change the odd social quirks and show just how the whole wide-global system could work!
No conquered lands for his queen, just a Rotary International charter gleaned, creating a peaceful legacy to shine of ‘Lasting Impactful’ “Service Above Self” for all of Humankind!
Happy Columbus Day! A N D yes…”It’s A Great Day To Be A Rotarian!”
