April 2017
Marilynn Jemas, St. Louis, Missouri
Years
ago, Audrey Hepburn stated “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says “I’m
possible!”
That
one word ignites our ability to think outside the box, to tap into hidden
potential and then churn out the expectancy of great things to come.
Audrey’s
comment perfectly personifies Philoptochos!
Our members possess a resolute CAN DO attitude that really defines who
we are. We have built a strong reputation for solving problems. Accepting
difficult challenges and accomplishing the mission of helping those in need.
What
if each Philoptochos member would adopt this “I’m possible” strategy? Can we
shift our gears up several notches to capture “I’m Possible” thinking? What
more could Philoptochos achieve if we rev up our engines way past the familiar
and move on into to the realm of “anything is possible”?
Every
National Philoptochos Biennial Convention highlights the many challenges that
Philoptochos tackles and achieves. The 2016 Biennial Convention in Nashville
was a great example of the spirit of Philoptochos. Each daily session and agenda radiated the
good works of our beloved organization!
As
convention delegates celebrated our 85th anniversary, they were
presented with a tremendous array of societal problems and how different
chapters had addressed working with these issues. Delegates were filled with
pride for these kinds of inspiring tales and eager to return to their own
chapters to tackle new initiatives of their own. All were transformed by the
information received. A crescendo of cheering was so loud that those outside
the meeting room could not help but note the exuberance!
In
our own chapters, each of us can be a cheerleader for Philoptochos, spreading
our positive message with pride. We can build upon the legacy of all the
hardworking, determined members before us, knowing that it is now our turn to
leapfrog Philoptochos into a full future, never fearing to explore new
possibilities or challenges.
Now
in our 86th year, let’s continue to be confident that more positive
achievements are possible. Dare to expect that more interest and enthusiasm is
possible, that increased membership is possible and that greater service to
those is need is possible. Remember, “I’m Possible!”
