Lion Robert Littlefield's "Service from the Heart" Blog

This is my final blog of the MD5 campaign and as I write, my excitement grows about the upcoming convention and my desire to share the right message is on my mind. Endings are tough, particularly for people like me. But, as we near the end of the MD5 campaign, there seems to be no time like the present to say what I am feeling, so here goes.

Since I began sharing my thoughts on this blog last September after returning from the 2013 USA-Canada Forum held in Overland Park, Kansas; it seems like a good idea to return to the theme of this past year’s Forum: the famous story of a group of friends whose adventures became the basis for the Wizard of Oz. Only Lions of MD5, “we’re not in Kansas anymore.”

We are back in MD5; and it’s time to ask what have I learned during this time of campaigning for the honor and opportunity to serve as an International Director in Lions Clubs International?

I’ve learned that you have to use your brains. The scarecrow thought he didn’t have any brains; but he did, as he learned when others turned to him for answers and leadership to overcome the challenges he faced.

I’ve learned that you have to have heart. The tin man felt emptiness because he didn’t hear the beat of a heart; but his heart was there nonetheless, as he cared about his friends and showed compassion when it seemed there was no hope.

I’ve learned that you have to have courage. The lion’s exposed fears made him question his bravery; but it didn’t take long for him to protect his friends and save the day.

I’ve learned that you don’t have to go very far to find your heart’s desire. Dorothy always looked over the rainbow for happiness; but after confronting the mighty wizard, she finally accepted the fact that happiness was right in her own back yard.

Staging this campaign has required brains, heart, courage, and acceptance.

We used our brains to develop and conduct a positive campaign focusing on how my abilities can be used for the betterment of our association.

We focused on the dream in our hearts to make a difference in the lives of those who need our help. Fellow Lions from across the Multiple District recognized our heart was in the right place and joined our campaign.

Our courage was tested but our resolve to keep to the high road prevailed.

Finally, as in any venture, we accepted the fact that in the end, it will be the Lions of MD5 who determine who will advance to the next level of consideration as the endorsed candidate for International Director.

When Dorothy awoke from her dream, she greeted those around her like long-lost friends from Oz. Kathy and I are prepared to travel to Watertown, and will greet everyone as friends. With joy and expectation about what is to come at the week’s end, we wish everyone traveling a safe trip and we look forward to greeting the Lions of MD5 with an open heart.

Thanks for reading my blog these past months. As this chapter closes, we hope another will begin with the opportunity to serve the world on the Lions International Board of Directors.

–Lion Robert Littlefield