Do we remember why we are Lions?

Have we forgotten that first individual we helped receive services they needed?  Or the first person who you provided help, and changed their life forever; maybe with a pair of glasses, a warm coat for the winter, or just a warm meal when they needed it?

You may not even remember when you became a Lion in your heart. Our International President, Sid Scruggs, has asked us to re-dedicate our Lions life. Receive that joy and fulfillment again.

Help your club this month with a new or ongoing project that will bring back that feeling of accomplishment and joy of giving to others.  We have become so complacent in our lives that we just do things without taking a moment to reflect on how this event may change a life forever.

We are again in full swing with the Kids Sight program. The referrals are starting to mount again. Our average is around 5% and in some areas a bit lower or higher, but important with any number. If the referral was only one child, and that child was detected and treated for a blinding disease, wouldn’t it be worth it? Yet at this point, over 400 young people have been referred in the state of Tennessee. These 400 lives might change forever because of this one encounter by a Lion performing this 30 second procedure.  Is what we do worth it? You’re darn right it’s worth it.

The thousands of lives that we change through our work in Lionism can never be estimated, but it’s happening in our communities with Kids Sight, Food Banks, Clothing, Shelters, and list goes on.  We need to keep in mind that what we are doing is what’s right, helping our fellow man, but we must also realize that if you and I don’t do it, then who will?

We are rapidly approaching the holiday season again and I would ask that we look within your communities see if there are families in need that could use our help. While shopping at Lowe’s a couple of weeks ago, a young lady working there saw my Lion’s pin and asked me if I was a Lion. I told her yes and asked her if there was anything I could do to help her. Her neighbor, an elderly lady, had taken into her home her daughter’s two young children, because the daughter was in jail. To make a long story short, she was asking for help to provide some presents for the youngsters at Christmas.  Their Grandmother is unable to provide this much for them. I will be contacting my Lions Club to help fulfill this young lady’s request.

You may never know who is watching you that might be in need. Look around they’re there.

DG Bill McDonald