Welcome to February, 28 more winter days to focus on big hearts and what matters.
Engage 204 continues to offer opportunities for residents to learn what students need for the future. Individuals who have been following the economic forum in Davos likely have been enlightened, too. Science, math and human-service skills are needed for the new world economy; growing in technology, artificial intelligence, an aging population and medical advancements.
Every community is free to pick and choose what matters. In Naperville the community touts that families matter. Education matters. Public safety matters. Jobs matter. Good health matters. Fiscal responsibility matters. Heritage matters. Economic vitality matters. Good will matters. Culture matters. Volunteerism matters. Kids matter.
Our aim at PN is to be an authentic resource based on facts, empathy and community spirit at a time when news watching changes by the second, amid countless reports that social media services are controlling the news we receive. We think print matters.
Residents often say we live in a bubble here in Naperville. Beautiful photos of the Riverwalk and other growth and development throughout this city reflect a defining bubble that has welcomed energetic and talented risk-taking thinkers since 1831.
Since January 9, our City has been without one of those generous innovative thinkers. That’s the day Frank Slocumb died from cancer at the age of 72. His 25 years as an active Naperville contributor inspired this month’s theme.
After Frank retired as President of Harris Bank about 10 years ago, he became more involved in the Rotary Club of Naperville he joined in 1993. He served as club president in 2012-13. Ray Kinney described “Frank’s Way” of life in the remembrance he wrote and read at Frank’s funeral, citing Rotary’s Four-Way Test.
Written by businessman Herbert J. Taylor in 1932, The Four-Way Test is a simple, 25-word ethical guide for anyone who chooses to use it. It frames worthy objectives in all choices of life for individuals striving to be successful and necessary for good. Sometimes it’s a tough test to follow, but as mentioned, it’s a guide. Nobody’s perfect.
And these days, The Four-Way Test offers a positive check list in a world too often filled with negativity, distractions and a rate of change faster than ever.
Balance matters. Thanks for reading!
“The Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do” officially was adopted with a copyright by Rotary International in 1954.
1. Is it the TRUTH?
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
