Fra 3D Presidenten Kathy Dollymore
The last six months have been challenging to say the least, I’ve been impressed by the exciting new ideas developed for elections and holding meetings. Innovation is more important now than ever before. From fraternal acts of kindness, supporting our members, thinking of practical ways to make a positive impact during the pandemic, hosting different kinds of lodge meetings, to tracking important data, the last few weeks and months have shone a light on the power of human creativity and collaboration. There is more work to do, but the tenacity and dedication of Sons of Norway members have brought us much closer to a model of what we will call New Normal.
Nominations and elections for our lodges have taken place and I congratulate the lodges for thinking of the new ways to carry on with leadership So, this is a special THANK YOU for those who have accepted a position whether a returning officer or new officers- Please support the officers that take on the challenge of leadership, specifically…. support their new ideas! Some will be a refreshing change and others might be a learning experience. Remember that change can be good! Getting out of your comfort zone is never easy. In this ever-changing world things must change to grow and survive. However, let’s move forward without forgetting the significance of our long-standing traditions and ceremonies
Our gatherings for Thanksgiving may be different this year. Even Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be a virtual event this year. Thanksgiving is a time when many families travel long distances to celebrate together. Staying home may be the best way to protect yourself and others. If you must travel, be informed of the risks involved. Even with all the challenges we are up against, we will find a way to celebrate and give Thanks in a way that celebrates our families, SON communities, country, and all we have to be thankful for.
And…. there is light at the end of the tunnel. In the meantime, this is your Lodge, your Sons of Norway. If we want our lodges to continue to grow, we must recognize what our members expect from our lodges. So, let’s speak up and let’s also listen.
Some of our lodges are still having nice enough Autumn weather to pick a day and get out and breathe some fresh Fall air and see the changing of the leaves, see the geese flying south, maybe group with some other lodge members for a ramble. Don’t forget to use the walk for your sports medal, take care of yourself and take care of others.
Fraternally, Kathy