As a Rotary Foundation Scholar in Israel, I enjoyed a year immersed in a completely different culture than my own. I learned a new language (Hebrew), ate new food, explored new places, met new people, and participated in new customs. All in all, I experienced a great year of study and learning.
However, the most memorable moment could have happened to me anywhere. One hot, Mediterranean afternoon, I was riding in the back of our touring truck, listening to several scholars discuss the three archaeological sites we were visiting that day. They carried on their lively exchange in Hebrew. I listened intently, struggling to follow the meaning of the words. One of the men, Dr. Anson Rainey, turned to me—the only student in the group—and asked, “Can you understand the discussion?”
“Part of it,” I replied ruefully.
Dr. Rainey turned to the others and said in Hebrew, “Let’s speak in English for Jim.”
They complied immediately, and I learned a lot from the ensuing conversation. It was great to be included. In reaching out to me that way, Dr. Rainey made me feel important. While I have forgotten the scholarly interchange, I have never forgotten Anson Rainey or the way he chose to treat me that afternoon.
CHAMPS make the small feel great.
