The person I want to be: One step forward

Being a good speaker helps to achieve some goals more easily. For example, when good-speaking scientists give a talk, they capture the attention of their audience more easily. That helps them to spread their ideas. But what can we do if we lack the skill of good speaking?

Last Thanksgiving I went with my husband for the 4-day weekend to Searsport, Maine. We stayed in Inn Britannia that offers the traditional Thanksgiving dinner. And I should also say that they have award-winning breakfasts! On Thursday afternoon, just before the grand event, I was taking a shower and thinking, “Oh, I should have something in mind to toast just in case someone asks”. While waiting for dinner, all the guests at the Inn were gathering in the living room, and of course one of them suggested that each of us say a few words. I said to myself, “Good thought. You are prepared”. After a few toasts, my turn was coming, and my heart started bumping hard. When my turn arrived, I did not know how to start. Speaking slowly I found some words, and then somehow I said my ready speech, “I am thankful for the great food we have today…thankful for having the opportunity to enjoy the joy of people in this particular day”. Simple words. But they were all listening. It was a nice feeling.

When going to bed that night my husband told me that I surprised him and said, “Your speech was great”. That made my day! That meant my effort was a step forward to become a good speaker. Will I be? It does not matter. But the little step was greatly rewarding.