The "Ice Breaker" 


It wasn't a "wrist breaker" speech but, oddly, breaking my wrist helped me with my first speech, the "ice-breaker".  I had gotten a little more comfortable with the club meetings.  At the beginning of a meeting the "timer" and the "ah-grammarian" explain their duties.  Near the end of the meeting a report is given.  Basically, the meeting is designed so that usually everyone gets a chance to speak. I could feel that the practice of being up front and speaking to an audience, with all eyes on me, was nibbling away slowly at my fear!

Writing my speech was fairly easy.  I had 3 reasons for joining the club and I expounded on those reasons in my speech.  First, I had a close friend who'd casually mentioned that she'd like to join a club (that was about 20 years ago).  Secondly, my mother had passed away about 15 years ago.  While caring for her in her last few months of life she had mentioned to my sister and I one of her biggest regrets.  Her regret was "not letting more people into her life".  That really resonated with me. Not only did I want to let more people into my life but more importantly I knew that I needed to let more of myself out.  The third reason is because of that "explosion" in my life (about 5 years ago).

 I HAD to grow my voice, my confidence and my self esteem.  I'm thankful that my friend mentioned Toastmasters way back then!

I practiced my speech all alone as I walked from room to room in my home. Memorizing is easier for me if I walk.  Practicing in front of someone was far too scary.  I did have a practice audience in mind though.  About a week before giving my speech at the club meeting I was going to be visiting my son and also my niece in another state.  They would be the perfect audience.

 to be continued

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