Service Above Self

“Service Above Self.”

This motto was coined by Rotarian Frank Collins when he was asked to address participants at the second annual Rotary Convention in 1911. In his impromptu speech, he shared with the club how the phrase “service, not self” was fundamental to being a strong Rotarian.

At the 1950 Rotary Convention, the motto, having struck a chord with all Rotarians, was modified, then officially adopted.

Mr. Collin’s remarks continue to resistant today, 100 years later.

A Rotarian for 75 years, Dr. Robert E. L. Miller Jr., my grandfather, lived his life by this code. A dentist for 67 years, his dedication to his family, church, practice, and community was exemplified in everything he did.

Preceding his death, the Rotary Club of Front Royal created the annual “Robert E. L. “Bob” Miller Community Service Award” in honor of his 75 years of service to the Front Royal-Warren County community.

Now, ten years later, the award has been discontinued.

The question is why?

Are Rotarians of this group really living the international Four-Way-Test: Is it [the] truth? It is fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Why do you discontinue an award for an individual who served his community through Rotary for 75 years?
Service above self, a worthy motto for us all.

That is the question I ask.

Ashley Miller
Front Royal, Virginia