I first joined Rotary Club back in 1981 in Peterborough, and as a young member, I thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship, the work we did for charity, and the social side of the club.
In 1983, I decided to accept a position as Software Manager for the Texas Instruments computer distributor in Saudi Arabia, and stayed out there for over six years.
No clubs or organisations were permitted in Saudi Arabia, so my membership to Rotary Club had to be stopped.
It was not until a few years ago that I rejoined, this time the Kingston upon Thames Rotary Club.
I have time when not travelling the world giving courses, time that I can give to the community, time that I can give some of my knowledge, my expertise, my energy.
If we are doing nothing, why not help others who are less fortunate?
I love my job as a trainer, speaker, change manager, and also being part of Rotary, whose motto is Service Above Self, and certainly I see other members who give so much time and energy without counting the cost, perhaps just for the fellowship, perhaps just for the social connections.
At a recent meeting I was asked to take some photographs of the Mayor of Kingston upon Thames being accepted into Rotary Club at our lunchtime meeting.
Just taking some photographs to share with others, to have a pictorial history for the club, costs me nothing, just my time, yet perhaps it can give pleasure to others.
I know my friends, Bob and Laiyng Wheatley, who were Mayor and Mayoress of Fishguard and Goodwick recently, had a enjoyable and rewarding time, and I hope the Mayor and Mayoress of Kingston upon Thames, Patrick and Susan Codd, have the same experience, even if every day is taken-up with engagements and meetings for little or no payment, and with so many meals and dinners to attend, they will have to watch their waist line.
I share the photographs with you.
The Mayor of Kingston upon Thames, Councillor Patrick Codd
with
Anne McCormack President of Kingston upon Thames Rotary Club
The Mayor of Kingston upon Thames, Councillor Patrick and Susan Codd
with
Anne McCormack President of Kingston upon Thames Rotary Club
