Ava Berghuis - LLC 2023

 

At first when I arrived at LLC,  I didn’t know how to feel. My emotions were everywhere and I didn’t exactly know what I was getting into. The first day I was shy and I went into the auditorium and found a seat. I sat by people I was unfamiliar with, complete strangers at the time. I wasn’t expecting anything more than a strict business meeting. After just a few minutes, my mood changed. I felt welcomed, I felt honored, and most of all I felt loved. Mason always had the music going, it was one of my favorite parts. Everyone was skeptical about singing at first. I remember Sweet Caroline being the first song we tried to sing. To be honest, it wasn’t the best at first, as everyone was shy. But, when singing Sweet Caroline again on the last day of the conference everyone was standing up and enjoying themselves. That is leadership. I have learned that even when you might not want to do something, being a leader is doing it, when you take action without complaint, when you move the world with your actions and your voice. 

 

I have always wanted to be able to spread my leadership skills and learn more about the different ways to be a leader and this conference did just that. The Rotary Life Leadership Conference overall changed my life for the better and I would definitely do it again. 

The staff was wonderful, always helping when needed, and open to different thoughts. The content in the conference itself was beyond amazing. I learned new things, not only about being a leader, but also about myself. The structure was well put together, we were always having fun and sharing opinions. One thing that really stood out to me was the Four Way Test. This was referring to the things we think, say, or do. 1. Is it the truth? 2. Is it fair to all concerned? 3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships? And 4, Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Using this method has helped me come to better conclusions with logical thinking. I am able to find a better solution to an issue by using this process. 

I really enjoyed everyone’s presentations, they were so impactful and well taught. Two things that stood out to me have followed me home from the conference. Molly Kennedy’s saying, “Flip your 20”, has greatly impacted my life. When I am down about something or even thinking negatively, I am reminded of “Flip your 20” and instantly change my mindset. Her voice and her words have stuck with me and I am very appreciative that I was able to hear those things. The second piece I truly loved was the poem “It Couldn’t Be Done”presented by Howard Oesterling. This poem taught me something valuable, a lesson I plan to bring with me everywhere. Believe in yourself even when you are surrounded by negativity. You are your biggest supporter, and as long as you have confidence, nobody can break that barrier. You must follow your dreams and make a difference, be able to forget a routine, and enjoy life the way you want. By trying new things that haven’t been done before,  “Just start to sing as you tackle the thing that “cannot be done,” and you’ll do it”. 

As an already progressing student, I hope to create a difference in my community. I have already started using things I have learned from LLC in my everyday life and now I can use it to make an impact in the world. Just recently, I started volunteering, which is something I never did before. Although it is a small step, that tiny improvement is leading to a life full of success. This conference has opened my eyes to many different possibilities in life. I am more active with my movement and my voice. Being a leader takes action and great responsibility. I am able to change my life by being a leader, not a follower. Change happens once you start a movement, use your voice, and take action. I am going to make a difference in this world, and even if it is just small good deeds, a little goes a long way.