Sannee McFarlane
When I was nine or ten years old my mother charged me with returning a cup of sugar to a neighbour. The amount she gave me was closer to two cups and when I querried this she said, "always return more than you have borrowed". This left a lasting impression on me.
When I was in grade 12, I was nominated to be the treasurer on the students council. I was so terrified of working under the teacher who supervised the meetings, I declined the nomination. My principal lectured me in front of the entire school on my lack of fidelity sportsmanship etc. etc.
These two incidents have influenced me all my life: to give in full measure and never say "no" when asked to serve. At one time when my boys were growing up I was on the executive of five organizations simultaneously!
In 1975 I was asked to join Zonta, an organization which provides the perfect opportunity to serve not just locally but globally as well. Alone I could do little but in conjunction with 35,000 like minded women much can be accomplished. The wonderful fellowship has been a heartwarming experience, and the opportunity to work throughout the district and to participate on an international committee a true privilege. While serving as an Area Director I met with clubs throughout the Pacific Northwest, forming friendships for life. At the international convention held in Dallas in 1990 I was appointed Centurian by the incoming President, Leveen Forde. I still proudly wear my pin. Centurians travelled endeavouring to form new Zonta clubs. On the island I was able to charter Port Hardy and Nanaimo as well as assisting with South Pugit Sound and Bellingham.
Other aspects of my life include the love of husband and children., grandchildren and great grandchildren. A passion for social bridge and reading voraciously. I am also a member of the Greater Victoria Citizenship Council. This organization prepares a reception for new Canadians and assists at Citizenship Court. This gives me an opportunity to speak about Zonta. For many years I canvassed for the Salvation Army, Heart and Stroke and Cancer Societies. Pearson College provided a wonderful opportunity to meet and host foreign students and I still participate with Freinds of Pearson College. Pacific Operra Victoria hosts a cast supper during rehearsals for which I am privileged to cater.
My many years in Zonta have afforded me the opportunity to travel far and wide. I have attended a number of international conventions, sometimes as club delegate. Each time I have built a trip around the venture, so have toured Europe and Scandinavia, New Orleans to St Louis, Hong Kong to Singapore, and Australia to name a few. You meet wonderful and interesting people wherever you go, extending your Zonta knowledge and connections, and definitely broadening one's horizons.
Zonta is my "charity of choice" and I heartily endorse memberships in this truly international organization.
