On this day, 15th December 2016, it was our Christmas Meeting and we were privileged to have stalwart member John Mitchell lead us in THANKFULL REFLECTION as he had done regularly, always with great style and worthy content.
On that occasion President Quin Scalzo, Kevin Sheehan, and John donned Santa Hats to kick off our meeting in a festive manner.
For John, it turned out to be his final reflection and without doubt his best, which we can cherish in memory for, sadly John left us shortly afterwards.
Thank you to Past Presidents Quin and Kevin for preserving the words John had composed and delivered …. and today as immediate past President, I have that privilege.
“As we pause in this brief moment of Reflection and give thanks for the food we are about to receive, and the opportunity Rotary gives us to be of Service, our minds turn to the coming Festive Season.
Living in a free and tolerant society there is a recognition that irrespective of our personal religious beliefs, the message of the season - "peace on earth and goodwill to all people" - permeates our lives.
As we reflect on these words let us all recommit to work constantly to bring about a world in which peace and goodwill dominate the minds of the world's leaders so that future generations can live together in a peaceful world where poverty is overcome, and equality of opportunity exists.
On behalf of the Reflection Givers Team (as John said) may I wish you all a peaceful and happy festive season and every good wish for the year ahead.”
For friendships in Rotary, and the opportunity to serve, we give thanks.
Reg Smith
Thank you to Reg Smith for providing this reflection on 14 December 2022.
