Rotary's four-way test for politicians

The object of Rotary International, a service organzation with 35,000 clubs and 1.2 million members worldwide, is not so much different than the object of good, elected public service, in my view.

If voters are looking for solid reasons on why they should vote for someone in November at the general election, consider which political candidates best live up to the Rotary ideals.

The object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster:

*First - the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service;

*Second - high ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations and dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society;

*Third - the application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business and community life;

*Fourth - the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.

Rotarians try to live up to what’s called “The Four-Way Test’’ regarding the things they think, say or do:

*Is it the truth?

*Is it fair for all concerned?

*Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

*Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Service Above Self is the motto of Rotary. The Rotary Code of Conduct includes the following:

As a Rotarian, I will:

*Act with integrity and high ethical standards.

*Deal fairly with others and treat them and their occupations with respect.

*Use my professional skills to mentor young people, help those with special needs and work to improve the quality of life in my community and in the world.

*Avoid behavior that reflects adversely on Rotary and other Rotarians.

People seeking elected public service would do well to try and follow these ideals. We should be able to disagree about things  in society without personally hating others who may disagree with us.               

The Holton Recorder

109 W. Fourth St.
Holton, KS 66436
Phone: 785-364-3141
 

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