Lions Clubs of Multiple District 36, Oregon and Northern California

We Serve

Eugene, OR USA

541-484-0452

Lions of Oregon & Northern California are a part of an international network of 1.4 million men and women in 200 countries and geographic areas who work together to answer the needs that challenge communities around the world. Lions are best known for working to end preventable blindness, the giving of eyeglasses and hearing aids for the needy and local service projects.

 

Mission Statement of Lions Clubs International:

 

"To create and foster a spirit of understanding among all people for humanitarian needs by providing voluntary services through community involvement and international cooperation."

 

JUNE 2019 ISSUE

May 21, 2019  /  Guest User

SOARING BEYOND THE HORIZON AS “WE SERVE”

 

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As I write this final article as Council Chair, I think about all of the Lions I have been in contact with throughout this year and marvel at the character strengths and life skills     I have observed. The list below show characteristics that make good dedicated Lions, and I am proud to be in that group.

 

Compassion for others suffering and the motivation to relieve that suffering.

Communication in receiving, and sharing information. Talking or writing, and listening or reading clearly, and respecting different opinions.

Courage to do something difficult even when there's risk. Lions are courageous people who do and say what they think is right despite opposition.

Curiosity as we see a strong desire to learn or know something.  Lions seek answers to their questions for the sake of gaining knowledge. They actively seek out challenges and new experiences to broaden their horizons.

Empathy as they put themselves in someone else's shoes and understand the feelings and perspective of another person.  

Gratitude for the good things that happen in their lives and taking the time to express appreciation and return kindness, leading to a stronger sense of well-being.

Humility as a learned character strength of not regarding themselves as more special or better than others.

Integrity to tell the truth and act in a sincere way, consistent, trustworthy and ethical. Lions treat people equally and take responsibility for their own feelings and actions. 

Perseverance to keep doing something in spite of obstacles. Lions are people who persevere, show steadfastness in doing something despite how hard it is or how long it takes to reach the goal.

Self-control to be able to appropriately manage thoughts, feelings, and impulses. Lions pay attention to their emotions and feelings

Teamwork in working respectfully and effectively with a group and doing their share. Many basic character strengths, such as communication, self-control, and humility, support a person's ability to work on a team. Teamwork is more than getting along with people. The key to being a good team player is the ability to put a group's needs above your own.

While we all don’t show all of these characteristics outwardly, they are there and they show up to those “We Serve”

“Will you not help me hasten the day when there shall be no preventable blindness; no little deaf, blind child untaught; no blind man or woman unaided? I appeal to you Lions, you who have your sight, your hearing, you who are strong and brave and kind. Will you not constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind in this crusade against darkness?”
— Helen Keller's Speech at 1925 International Convention Cedar Point, Ohio, USA June 30, 1925