People: The Unsung Blessings That Shape Our Lives

By Hanna Abebe

Listening to Rotarian Zenna Debassu recount his 24 years of dedication to Rotary is truly inspiring. A Past Country Chair for Rotary Ethiopia, his stories aren’t just about projects completed; they were about lives transformed.

The echoes of laughter from children receiving polio vaccines, the grateful smiles of those regaining their sight after eye surgery, the security on faces accessing clean water – these were the bedrock that solidified his commitment.

Rotarian Zenna witnessed firsthand the tangible impact Rotary has on the world, and in turn, the impact the world has on him. His journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Challenges inevitably arise when you’re committed to making a difference. But what resonated most was the unwavering spirit that kept him grounded in Rotary’s mission. It was the knowledge that even amidst the difficulties, the positive impact on others outweighed the struggle.
Rotarian Zenna’s story extends beyond Rotary. He’s also a distinguished lawyer and consultant. He openly attributes a portion of his professional success to his Rotary involvement. Beyond the skills and knowledge gained through formal education, his Rotary experience cultivated a level of empathy, communication, and leadership that proved invaluable in the courtroom and beyond.
Rotarian Zenna’s experiences remind us that the relationships we forge, the connections we nurture, and the opportunities we create to serve others are not just fulfilling, they are transformative. He embodies the idea that being a force for good not only benefits those around us but also enriches our own lives in ways we might never have imagined.
So, let’s be mindful of the blessings that people bring into our lives. Let’s embrace the opportunities to connect, to serve, and to learn from each other. Because, in the end, it’s the collective impact of our individual efforts, driven by the power of human connection, that truly makes the world a better place. Listening to him is a powerful reminder of a simple yet profound truth: people are blessings.