The Forest for the trees

Hello Lions,
 
One day I was listening to a lecture on American business practices and the speaker stated that one difference between Japanese and Americans is the Japanese look for patterns while the Americans look at the detail. I do not know if what the speaker said is true or not. What I do know is many people get so bogged down in the details they do not see how the pieces are interdependent. This leads them to fix the piece with no care or understanding how or if it will affect the whole. They cannot see the forest for the trees.
 
This year we are seeing the forest and beyond. District Governor Randy just keeps sayin’ “We work for you.” “It not about us, it’s about the clubs.” Always ask “is it good for the district”? “Mark, my truck is dirty, get the hose!” For some people, these are just a tired old phrases; for Randy, they are real and heartfelt. He wants each of us to succeed.
 
When I was elected 2nd Vice District Governor, one of the many things that initially came to mind was, “Cool, now I will not have to worry about getting a seat at an event.” Quickly, I realized that the seat saved for me, was not where I should be sitting. I should be sitting with club members learning more about them. As part of the governor team, I have come to appreciate what it means to help Lions find answers to questions, direct them to the person or group that can best help them, and represent them at the Multiple District.
 
We see the interdependent pattern of Lions working together to make our communities better, one service project at a time. We see the forest and recognize that as District Leaders, we need to relight the flame of Lionism in some clubs, encourage clubs in their efforts, and share our successes throughout the District. When we do, we all benefit. We understand this is a multi-year effort that will continue to strengthen us and allow us to continue serving people for years to come.
 
Together leading our legacy into the future,
 
Mark Piva
1st VDG
[email protected]