The Power of One
"Light up Rotary" is the theme chosen by 2014-15 Rotary International President Gary C.K. Huang to symbolize his term in office. It was inspired by “The Power of One”, a poem written by Ashish Ram. The poem must not be viewed in a microcosm. Rather, the power of one is exponentially enhanced when focused as is the light of a laser beam. “One” is a numerator representing each individual Rotarian, you and me. The denominator collectively represents over 1.2 million members of Rotary International. As a single water molecule is the core and essence of all the oceans, one Rotarian is the core and essence of Rotary International. The target of the light is depicted by the concentric rings of the Object of Rotary. The bull’s-eye is “Service Above Self”.The light of Rotary International must not pale in its luster or drift off target. When properly directed, the spark of one Rotarian has the potential to ignite life sustaining warmth. Conversely, a misguided spark has the potential to kindle a raging forest fire.
The word “light” requires consideration of an additional factor. Brightness does not, and cannot by and of itself, generate or reflect light. Light is comprehensible only when contrasted with darkness. Light and darkness occupy a continuing gradient of perception. Absolute darkness has no light, as absolute light has no darkness. Low light in deep darkness varies little perceptually from bright light in faint darkness.
The last word in light up Rotary is “Rotary”. In order for Rotary International to achieve maximum brilliance, the light of each one, every individual Rotarian, must shine with passionate intensity. The laser light will then have the power to penetrate the most entrenched areas of lingering darkness afflicting humanity. The darkness of intolerance, hostility, hunger,disease, and illiteracy which lamentably yet afflict much of humanity will be brightened with caring and compassion, and the light of Rotary will shine with dazzling intensity.