I recently competed at the Toastmasters International Division G Area contest held March 10th at the MTO Downsview complex. An urban cool experience with competitiors from all nationalities, faiths and experiences, sharing it all for the pleasure of entertainment and challenge. I was impressed with the tales of a Russian immigrant who met a stranger while working as a receptionist that then met with her and furnished her empty apartment, because her parents were once immigrants too. Another competitor took us on her journey to Hong Kong, and we learned that kindness exists in China too. The winner, shared with us the story about life changing moments as we sat with her next to her almost dieing father and gathered strength to bring him back to life.
Our target speaker spoke about imperfect masterpieces, specifically about his handicapped son Lucas, who he has fought to have him keep up with the kids of his own age. I had to evaluate this speech and was out performed by another Toastamaster, as his presentation was more structured and thorough. A challenge for me and a great learning experience.
I recently read the story of a civil servant's financial status report. She earns a decent income yet has no assets, as she is addicted to shopping. The financial planner's advice was to use time more effectively such as amateur theatre to avoid the shopping addiction. Personally, I think that loneliness and dissatisfaction drives people to the malls to shop for goods. If people would invest time in themselves and study the art of public speaking such as in toastmasters, not only will they improve themselves through education, but they will save wasted time and money in the malls etc. Their net worth statements would improve both financially and academically.
Keep reading and exploring.
Earl
The Adventure Guy
No comments:
Post a Comment