February 15, 2010 ~
I heard the loud sound of a large bird striking my office window. Looking out, I discovered my cat Cricket attempting to tackle a Sharp- Shinned hawk, lying in the grass, below the window. Although groggy and obviously stunned, this bird was attempting to fight off the cat, even though it was struggling to breathe and move, unable to effectively use its wings, beak or talons. Beating the cat off the bird with a dish towel, I was able to gently catch and wrap the little Sharp- Shinned in the towel, preventing further damage to the bird, not to mention my fingers or hand.

As the little Sharp-Shinned succumbed to shock and fright, I was able to carefully examine this exquisitely fragile creature, for broken wing bones or other mortal injuries. Satisfied the little hawk would recover, given adequate protection, support and time, I hung this marvel of avionics, carefully nestled in a fruit basket, from my mulberry tree. Within the hour, the gift of life was renewed, as this little hawk lifted skyward on strong wings.

How many of our Lions clubs are like this little hawk? Fragile, battered, bruised and struggling for life, having once flown high and strong, but brought low by time, age, isolation, inflexibility, lack of interest, motivation or enthusiasm, suddenly smashing head first into the window of club mortality?

How many Lions have the courage to look deep within their clubs to repair what is broken, battered, bruised or non-productive? The Lions community stands ready to lend protection and support. Do you have the instinct for survival, to once again lift skyward on strong wings?
Sheri Serve
2 – VDG 6-West

November 10, 2009 ~
Were you ever under the impression the “Old West” is dead? Well, I’m here to tell ya partner, the pioneer spirit is alive and well.

Embodying the spirit of our pioneer forbears in tenacity, innovation, creativity and long range vision, we have forged bonds throughout our communities, towns and cities through the steel strength of firm handshakes and tender words, spoken in tones of soft velvet, offering assistance to those in need.

We are as independent as the wild mustangs still roaming the Bookcliffs, knowing there is strength in numbers and as keen eyed as a golden eagle, mounting the crystalline western skies, sharply focused on a single objective, while acutely aware of the wider view. We are not afraid to question, realizing the greatest asset of any individual is truth, sincerely spoken. Never underestimate our passion, when we remain quiet, deep and reflective, until all facts are presented, or our ability to function as a well harnessed team, to accomplish tasks and goals, set before us in challenge.

We proudly stand before the flag of our nation and are grateful for guidance and blessings bestowed.

Indelibly marked by the red hot brand, forged from the words of our predecessors: Liberty, Intelligence Our Nations Safety, we are proud to be Lions of 6 West.

May All Of You Be Richly Blessed In the New Year,
Sheri Serve
2VDG 6-W

July 20, 2009 ~
There is a first time for everything; first grade, first love, a first kiss, a first child and first 2nd Vice District Governor…An interesting thought and even more interesting concept. Most first time positions, programs and innovations, are conceived and implemented out of necessity.

The strength of the Lion membership relies upon the strength of its leadership. When leadership becomes over whelmed and over burdened, it can no longer be responsive to the membership, whom it serves. District Governors and First Vice District Governors have been increasingly overwhelmed between visitation, travel, meetings and the demands of International, State and District responsibilities. In 6-W geographical distance alone, estimated at larger than the state of Tennessee and smaller than the state of Florida, is intimidating.

The position of 2nd Vice District Governor allows the sharing of responsibility, while most importantly providing the opportunity for three years of solid, cohesive leadership across the State and in the Lions Districts of Colorado.

Although, 2nd Vice District Governor doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue with ease, it is an innovative, well conceived and creative first time position. Like a first pair of new shoes, it takes some getting used too, but in the end they are a good fit and serve well.