SAE U.S.A - World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE)

A New Chapter

Annually, at the beginning of the year, we assess the year behind us and plan for our future activities. In our announcements we refer to our common vision and goals, to the imperative that we draw the younger generations into our programs, to the preservation of Greek paideia, the promotion of ethnic issues and to the need to sensitize ourselves on environmental issues. We also make appeals seeking common activities, unity and synergy. 

But if we sincerely wish to examine ourselves, we should admit that it is all wishful thinking.  So, what is the reason that common efforts fail to develop? Is it egoism or Indifference? What  keeps us apart?  Is it old differences and jealousies?  Is it Anachronistic rules that work against team work?  Finally, what causes this giant called “Hellenism in America” to fall apart into a million pieces?

My Dear Compatriots:

Let us not look for someone to blame for we are all responsible.  It is better to look ahead and to accept responsibility for what is happening.  Time flies. The power and the relevancy of clubs, federations and even umbrella organizations fades as time marches on. So, this year, let us move on to a new chapter in the history of Omogeneia. 

The organizations we belong to or lead become meaningful when we cooperate for the common good. The primary role of the leader is not to receive honors, but to serve humbly and with self-discipline.

We are not saviors of our nation…Hellenism is empowered with its own dynamism and will survive indefinitely regardless of our actions.  In all this I am referring to the organized Omogeneia.  

Now I am inviting you to send us your proposals on achieving team work among all the forces in our community.  The future of organized Omogeneia depends to a large degree on all of us. Otherwise, the traces of our leadership will be our good intentions and an occasional photograph. 

We are asking the leadership of Omogeneia organizations; the societies of professionals, scientists, academicians and young adults as well as independent Omegeneis to provide us with specific proposals and ideas so that we may prepare the agenda for a nationwide meeting in 2008. We will seek to identify those things that unite us. 

We are all equal and equally valuable to promote our common goals. There are no surplus people. Let us put aside our ego and differences which might have separated us in the past, and let us envision with love what can be, in order to contribute all we can to strengthen our voice and our potential. 

The beginning of each year marks a point for new endeavors. It is my wish that this year will mark the beginning of substantive cooperation among Hellenes in America, as we await for your response.

On behalf of the members of SAE USA Coordinating Council, our best wishes for a peaceful and productive 2008, with health, love, joy, and prosperity.

 Please send your proposals and suggestions by eMail, fax or regular mail:

 
801 W. Adams St., Suite 235, Chicago, Illinois 60657.

Tel. (312) 627-1821 – Fax (312) 627-1943

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www.saeusa.org

Theodore G. Spyropoulos

Coordinator, SAE USA