Past and present should team up for the future

Fellow CKI members,

After 11 years of daily syndication, cartoonist Bill Watterson, illustrator of the cartoon Calvin and Hobbes, published his final strip on December 31, 1995. In that cartoon, he depicted Calvin and his tiger friend, Hobbes, emerging from their home to find a freshly fallen snow, eager to go sledding. Their remarks as they looked around the white landscape included: “A new year … a fresh clean start!” and “It’s like having a big, white sheet of paper to draw on!” Then, they embarked on their sledding day with Calvin’s unmistakable final words: “It’s a magical world, Hobbes, ol’ buddy… Let’s go exploring!”

It is now April, and while there hopefully isn’t too much snow on the ground where you are, it is a time for clubs and districts everywhere to begin anew. Just days ago, the members you elected to lead took office to begin a yearlong journey they certainly won’t soon forget. Along the way, they surely will encounter some tremendous challenges, followed by tremendous successes. For many, a new set of responsibilities can make the first few weeks in office almost overwhelming. The beginning of any term is always one of the most challenging—but it doesn’t have to be so.

While each year is different and brings unexpected new challenges and triumphs, there are many situations that arise time and time again. Your predecessor likely has been through them all, and he or she has the knowledge to help you. All you have to do is ask. One of the biggest lessons we all have to learn at one point or another is that it is OK to ask for help. You may think you’re capable enough to handle the toughest situation without anyone’s help or advice. You may be right, but why make things more difficult for yourself? There is a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips—and the best thing you can do for the members you are leading is to take advantage of it.

With that in mind, those of you who are leaving office, you must understand that your job is not yet done. Throughout the past year, you have led your organization, and you have played a significant role in helping your club overcome obstacles in order to achieve success. In that time, I’m sure you’ve become quite attached to the organization, and want to see it succeed for many years to come. You’re no longer in office, but you can contribute to the success by offering your help, guidance, and wisdom.

Whether you are finishing a successful year of service, or just gearing up to start your own, this is an exciting time! In order to succeed, CKI needs the collective efforts of everyone who loves it. When CKI’s past and present work together, we form a team that is ready to lead us into a bright and successful future. This is our new year. This is our fresh, white sheet of paper. It’s a magical world—let’s team up and go exploring!