The Power of Gratitude: My Learning Experience from Orem-Lindon Rotarians and Kenneth Applegate
On May 8, 2024, I had the privilege of participating in Orem-Lindon Rotary meeting
and lunch.
On May 8, 2024, I had the privilege of participating in Orem-Lindon Rotary meeting and lunch.
At the beginning of the meeting Cathy Ambrose, Orem-Lindon Rotarian presented a check with $600.00 donation from the club to Mr. Brad Wardle, Director of the Utah Fire and Rescue Academy, and Chief Clint Smith (Draper City Fire), President of the Utah State Fire Chiefs Association. It will cover the cost of a Galleri Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test for local firefighters. The World Health Organization has classified firefighting as a Group 1 carcinogenic profession. The Galleri test has a 99.5% specificity rate for more than 50 types of cancer using a simple blood draw. As Mr. Brad Wardle expressed appreciation to Orem-Lindon Rotarians for their donation, he also mentioned, that “Currently this type of testing is not covered by any insurance providers.”
Cathy Ambrose, Orem-Lindon Rotarian presents a check with donation to the firefighters squad to fund cancer tests
After that, Mr. Kenneth Applegate, a passionate speaker, captivated the audience with his presentation on "gratitude." Through his experience and personal story, he illuminated the profound values of gratitude, demonstrating how gratitude can enrich our lives in meaningful ways.
Kenneth Applegate speaks before Orem-Lindon Rotarians
Kenneth shared how simply recognizing and appreciating who we are and what we have can open unexpected doors to networking and positive change in our personal lives. His narrative highlighted that each of us already has reasons to be happy, but too often, we are blinded by our materialistic desires and aspirations, thus neglecting the riches and simple joys that surround us.
(L to R): Keith Morgan, President of the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club presents a Rotary International coin to Kenneth Applegate
One of Kenneth's thoughts particularly caught my attention is, quote: "Gratitude is surrendering to what is, in order to honor what was, so that we can allow what is to come."and of quote. This quote resonates as a powerful reminder of the importance of living fully in the present, appreciating each moment, and acknowledging the blessings that surround us.
By adopting an attitude of gratitude, we free ourselves from the chains of dissatisfaction and comparison. We learn to see beauty in simplicity, to value human relationships, and to cultivate a sense of inner contentment. Gratitude thus becomes a catalyst for happiness and personal fulfillment.
Louyoko Nianza with Kenneth Applegate after presentation
In conclusion, Kenneth Applegate's presentation was a true invitation to reflection. It reminds us that gratitude is more than just an emotion; it is a way of life, an essential key to unlocking the full potential of our existence. By cultivating gratitude in our hearts, we embrace the fullness of life with gratitude and humility.
LOUYOKO NIANZA, Rotaractor from Congo
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