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Youth Services Chair Alexis Dascoulias

Vanessa Viloria Wins 4 Way Test Essay Contest

The 4-Way Test

 by Vanessa Viloria, Maui High School

Truth, fairness, goodwill, and friendship-they are all aspects of a successful business and moreover, a successful and satisfying life.  Upon researching, I discovered the very essence of  "The 4-Way Test" and why it was created. 

In the midst of trying to save his company from bankruptcy in 1932, Herbert J. Taylor was determined to create a code of ethics that would not only rebuild the company but be remembered by all and also allow all who followed it to act right and more importantly, to think right. 

The motto was simple, easy to follow, yet filled with purpose.  It reads as follows:  "Of the things we think, say or do…is it the truth? - Is it fair to all concerned? - Will it build goodwill and better friendships? -And will it be beneficial to all concerned?" 

Those four questions, if tested and fulfilled, build success and are key to this organization and to all people who choose to follow it.

I know some who may turn their backs to such a test and think that they don't need to be reminded of how to carry themselves.  But in actuality, we all need a simple motto to remind us of our purpose. 

At 17 years old, even I need a little reminder. Being social and in high school, I occasionally find myself in a mess of gossip.  Tempted to talk and talk even more, I stop and ask myself, "Is it the truth?"  Having no idea whether it is or not, I stop, knowing that it isn't fair nor is it right. 

Being previously employed as a Medical Records employee, I always needed to help patients with their concerns, no matter where they came from or what they needed.  I treated them equally, reminding myself, "Is it fair to all concerned?" 

Being involved with numerous clubs on campus and filling many leadership roles, I always have to ask myself "will it build goodwill and better friendships?"  I need to make sure I'm sending out the right impression and helping myself and my fellow classmates build goodwill in ourselves when we head out to do community service projects. 

Finally, as I sit here and write this I think to myself, "Will it be beneficial to all concerned?"  Will this essay that you read before you, spark something in you that will help you live in accordance with the 4-Way Test?  By writing this, I know I have truly benefited as I now can ask myself these four questions when I live each day.

The test, although simple, can be difficult.  Believe me, I have tried it.  But I believe that over time, as I place these high ideals into my way of life, I will become a better person.  Even the smallest improvement can make the biggest difference.  The 4-Way Test is a gateway-a gateway to reaching success and a gateway to bringing out the goodwill and heart of all people, allowing us to all live as friends.

September is New Generations Month

Our youth are tomorrow’s leaders and today’s citizens. We provide our young people access to resources, information, and individuals who truly care about their growth and development as positive, productive, participating people.

The activities in the avenue of Youth Services for District 5000 include:

Kids Voting Hawaii – curricular education for youth, K-12, in independent and all public schools with the culminating activity of an on-line voting ballot for the General Election.

RYLA – two-day leadership camps old on four islands for youth 15-17 years

Interact Clubs – Rotary club sponsored youth service organizations in high schools

Roteract Clubs – Rotary club sponsored service organizations in post-high school organizations

Youth Exchange - opportunities for high school students to have an international educational experience

Through these programs, Rotarians can "make a friend" with a younger person – and foster the development of attitudes and skills for a life of service leadership, community engagement, and civic responsibility.

Let’s celebrate Youth in September!

Begin new relationships with young people, get to know at least one young person, invite youth to club meetings to be recognized, and reaffirm existing connections with families, children and young adults! The young will keep us young at heart!

For more information and to be involved, contact New Generations Chair Trisha Edgar