Dear Roswell Rotarians,

Last week’s meeting was one for the history books. We had the rare privilege of hearing from five iconic figures who shaped not only the landscape of high school football in Georgia but also the very fabric of our community. Coaches Ray Manus, Tim McFarlin, John Coen, Pete Poulos, and Wayne Smith didn’t just win games—they built character, cultivated leadership, and passed on values that endure far beyond the scoreboard.

Their stories reminded us that leadership is not defined by titles, but by impact. That legacy is not measured in trophies, but in lives changed. It was a powerful illustration of what can happen when individuals commit to a larger purpose—something that resonates deeply with who we are as Rotarians.

This week, we continue that theme of purpose and legacy with a timely and important message from Jenn Gray. Jenn will speak to us about the challenges of burnout and disengagement—real issues not only in our personal and professional lives, but also in organizations like Rotary. Too often, clubs struggle when members lose sight of their “why.”

As Rotarians, our “why” is crystal clear: Service Above Self. But even the most dedicated among us can become weary when the day-to-day clouds our long-term vision. That’s why staying connected to our purpose is essential—not only to our personal fulfillment, but to the health and vitality of our club.

The philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche wrote, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” That statement could not be more relevant to Rotary. When we are anchored in purpose, we find the resilience to continue serving—even when the path gets tough.

Zig Ziglar once said, “Outstanding people have one thing in common: an absolute sense of mission.” Jen’s message is designed to help us reflect, reset, and reignite that sense of mission. Her podcast, Navigating Burnout, inspired this week’s talk, and I believe her insight can empower us to stay focused not just on what we do—but why we do it.

And let us not forget the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi, who said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” When we remember that our actions—no matter how small—are part of something much bigger, we move from routine to meaningful service.  If we all buy into this idea.  We not only become a club that is more enjoyable and impactful, but one that is contagious to new members and an example to all Rotary Clubs.  

Our Rotary year has just begun. Let’s recommit to the purpose that brought us here. Let’s continue building on the legacy of leaders—like those five remarkable coaches—who remind us that service, like coaching, is about lifting others up.

See you Thursday,

Trummie Patrick
President, Roswell Rotary Club