“The Power of One”: A Lesson for Lions

I want to tell you the story of one remarkable club. We can learn from their experience that no obstacle is too big to overcome. As long as a club has gumption, anything is possible.

The Canton Lions Club in Texas was down to seven members. They were ready to disband. The vote was three for disbanding and three for sticking it out. One member was on the fence. This was back in 1967. That’s important to know because in those days many clubs were flourishing and growing as never before. Yet this club was dying. There appeared to be no hope.

Well, the one member, torn over his decision, finally decided it was worth one more try. He voted to keep the club going.

Two things happened after that. The club increased its service. This tiny club made a big difference in its community. This shows the value of small clubs. A club doesn’t need many members to be viable.

The second development was that the club soon worked harder at attracting new members. Their diligence and hard work paid off. By rolling up their sleeves and rededicating themselves as Lions, they inspired others to join them. Membership took off. Since that fateful day when the club nearly disbanded, it’s been full speed ahead. Current membership stands at 122. The club is a tremendous asset to its community through its many first-rate service projects.

The story of the Canton Lions shows the “power of one.” One person often can make the difference between nothing at all being accomplished and a world of good. One person who believes in a cause can change the course of events. One person who refuses to give in to discouragement or disappointment can bring a multitude of good fortune to a multitude of people.

You can be that one person. You can be the Lion in your club who starts a bold new service project, revives a moribund one or inspires an aggressive recruitment or publicity initiative that raises the club to new heights. Great things can happen with your club, and one person can be the lever that turns the wheels of change.

There is an old saying relevant here. Don’t think that one person can’t change the world; it’s the only thing that ever has. Our service is a collective effort. But sometimes it takes one person to push that service to a higher level. As Lions, let us enjoy the camaraderie of being in a club. But let us never forget of the “power of one.” Don’t wait for the Lion next to you to seize the moment. The future belongs to those who grab it and take advantage of every opportunity.

Jimmy M. Ross, President
The International Association of Lions Clubs