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Rotary began with Founder Paul
Harris's desire to find in a large city of Chicago the kind of friendly
spirit and helpfulness that he had known in the small towns where he
had spent his early years. The formation of the first Rotary club satisfied
that need and it was perpetuated as the Rotary movement spread from Chicago
to other cities and then became a principle of the association that linked
the early clubs together. The spirit of friendship and service evolved
into a focus on helping to build goodwill and peace in the world. In a later
year, Paul Harris said: "Rotarians respect each other's opinions and are
tolerant and friendly at all times. Catholics, Protestants, Moslems, Jews,
and Buddhists break bread together in Rotary." A statement adopted by
Rotary International in 1933 recognized that activities and customs that
are legal and accepted in some countries may seem strange and contrary
to the accepted standards in other countries. It urged tolerance of such
differences in these words: "Rotarians in all countries should recognize
these facts (differences) , and there should be a thoughtful avoidance of
criticism of the laws and customs of one country by the Rotarians of another
country. " The policy also cautioned against "any effort on the part of
Rotarians of one country to interfere with the laws or customs of another
country." The statement is still considered good guidance for Rotarians
as they strive to strengthen the bonds of understanding, goodwill and
friendship around the world.
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