A remarkable experience from Anaheim, USA- at the International Assembly where Governors-elect and their spouses from all over the world get their training and get to know as many counterparts as possible from 162 countries. That was some stunning interaction among people with hearts and enthusiasm to serve mankind, beyond the boundaries of race, religion, gender and political ideologies. It was almost liked a dream-like state of utopia- that these people from such different background congregate to share, to learn and to strategize for the betterment of humanity.

Yes, indeed as some of our Past District Governors told me, I would make life-long friends as we all shared a most unique and cherished week there. I left the Assembly feeling a million dollars and more, richer in every sense, brimming with ideas and dreams to share with my dear Rotarians in my own District, and the possibilities of the unthinkable....
The leader of the Assembly was of course the incoming Rotary International President-elect, Bhichai Rattakul. With very different style from the present RI President Richard King, he conveyed his beliefs and hopes for Rotary in an equally inspiring way. As he was delivering his speech on the theme of 2002-2003 "Sow the Seeds of Love", our emotions flowed on from feeling extremely proud of the organization and being a part of it, to the moved sentiment of enabling a change for the better in so many people's lives, to the enormity of the bulk of work waiting for us, Rotarians, to tackle and the ultimate strong wish and belief to go out and continue working on what we believe in.I have never witnessed so many grown men and women wiping tears from their faces, moved and being motivated at the same time.

Five days after my return, the District Team Training Seminar Chairman, PP Dr. PC Fong of RC of Peninsula South and his very capable committee, under the guidance and planning of our District trainer, PDG Y K Cheng, together with the other training leaders, conducted the seminar for all the Assistant Governors, District Secretaries, all the District Committee Chairmen and Sub-committee Chairmen, as stipulated by the RI as mandatory. Feedback from the participants considered this as something precious and enjoyable to learn and share with other District leaders.

Now the training/learning cycle has started--- these leaders are going to share and impart their knowledge and experience at the Presidents-elect Training Seminar on 9 March and the District Assembly on 20 April, all for the preparation of future leadership... and the torch of Rotary is carried on...for almost a hundred years now!

From the Governor-elect,
Gloria Chan