FELLOWSHIP

A very senior Lion recently mentioned that he missed "the good, old days of Lionism." I asked what did he miss and he mentioned that "the fellowship today is so different." Curious, I inquired further as to the difference and he sighed, and clarified that "the Lions today are so shallow. The sense of brotherhood, friendship and care for one another is missing. Last time, we used to really care for each other. When a brother is sick, we would not only visit him but ensure that he gets the best medical treatment... some of us were doctors or high-ranking officials and we can really pull strings at the hospitals! Today, if I get sick, the President and members would probably not even know, much less visit me!"

He went on to explain that Lions then used to be the cream of society and being invited to become one was a real honor and privilege. Almost all were well-to-do but when it came to charity, they would be generous, personally and through their strong connections. Fellowship also meant going out to do things together, like driving to the coast for a good seafood meal, bowling through the night, mahjong and gin rummy gatherings (my, my... isn't that gambling?), learning golf and tennis from the seniors, visiting clubs overseas and having so much fun that he couldn't wait for the next opportunity to meet. Today, he hardly ever goes to his club meetings because "it is boring, filled with disagreements, sometimes aimless and certainly fellowshipless!"

Fellowship is important to the life and vibrancy of a club. We learn that fellowship is one of the three pillars of Lionism (the others being leadership and service). For me, fellowship is when members meet regularly in an informal manner, even if it is only three or four persons. It is under such circumstances that members get to know each other better in a cordial atmosphere. A good time to unwind, relax and enjoy the fun and laughter that camaraderie brings. Extend this frequently to other members of the club and the whole club will experience a revival of sorts, ready for any challenge and raring to go. That's the reason why I encourage members to gather informally more often (some clubs meet once a month, some twice but in a formal manner). I suggest (and my club practises) a formal business meeting once a month (immediately followed by a BOD meeting) and informal 'social' meeting(s) that can be held in a member's house or at any other venue. The informal occasion can be for a good meal, potluck style or in a restaurant. Often, even by washing the dishes together (not leaving it all to the host!), members chit-chat and friendship develops. When that happens, care for one another begins.

I used to (and will still do) tell any incoming President and Secretary that they must know every member's house and/or office. Then they must keep calling and/or visiting every member regularly. Get to know the family as well. That is the beginning of a relationship. When a member fall sick, the President and Secretary must know it fast enough to show concern or to take action. We may come from different backgrounds and diverse networks or businesses but friendship knows no bounds. We must first learn to care for our fellow members before we can proudly say we care for others!