www.whyiam.org …a service of

RGHF Rotary Global History

"We live in the present, we dream of the future,

 but we learn from the past."

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I became a Rotarian 18 years ago because I was looking for something more meaningful beyond the duties of a gynecologist who takes care of over a hundred women patients a day. The two hours on Thursday lunch time has been a relaxing time for me to meet and interact with Rotarians who have different ideas. I was often late for the weekly meetings due to my job but Hiroshima West RC members had been quite understanding and kind towards me.

I became inactive in Rotary for a long time because my work schedule has been different from those of most other members. My mind could not completely get away from thinking about my patients and my clinic all the time. Two or three years ago, the number of patients coming to my clinic has decreased, but I am still busy because I used more time for physical examinations or to explain complicated situations to each patient. I felt I have become more generous and accepting in all things. That must be the educational impact of Rotary on me, or possibly my brain cells have somewhat degenerated.

Now I have found another great reason to love Rotary. Lately when I attend some other meetings I am often shocked to notice I am the oldest in the group, but in Rotary meetings I can see many active senior members who are much older than me. I would like to learn more about Rotary philosophy and history if it is not too late though.

Fortuitously, I will be the incoming club training leader and the president-elect in 2010 – 2011.

Toshi Ihara, Hiroshima West RC, D.2710 (member of the RGHF board)