 | | | | Feel free to contact us with any questions, suggestions or feedback. | | | | | | | 5th May 2009 | | | | 5th May 2009
It was Neil Lockhart's first time as Toastmaster. He joined last year so he would have the practice and skills required to be 'bestman' at his friend's wedding. By the time we met again on the 19th May Neil would have done his duty. (You can read the outcome you can read below!)
We had 3 very informative speeches during the evening. Aki Akiwumi told us about the banking system and its complexities. How come we couldn't see this economic downturn coming, a question asked by some influential leaders? Was it all in the pursuit of greed and self interest? Aki talked about a well known philosopher and economist who is depicted on the back of a £20 note? Without looking do you know who he is?
Who has a plan for travelling this season? Travelling is an experience, a challenge and it makes us stronger as Agnes Hards said as she told us about many interesting countries on the African continent. She was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and excited about the beauty, scenery, environment these countries have to offer.
Joan Jardine was more subdued then her usual self as she read from 'Like the flowing River' by Paulo Coelho. (An evaluation comment!)
She reflected with great skill the emotions of the speech. She read about how to climb mountains, how to reach the mountain, learn from someone who has been there before, dangers seen from close up are controllable, landscape changes so make the most of it and be prepared to go the extra mile.
Those who were asked to comment during the table topics session had to start off with 'I couldn't disagree more.....' Can you imagine building a house with jelly and ice cream, jumping in the bath with a laptop, throwing eggs at policemen, speaking with your mouth full, an apple a day keeps the doctor away - these were David Langworthy's topic!
It is good to finish the evening on a note of laughter as Frank Thatcher was the Joke Master. He was also evaluating along with Vaness Buck, David Langworthy and Sudanta Abeyakoon.
Welcome to 2 new members who joined that evening. Yetunde and Samuel know each other well! The only married couple we have in the club. So far anyway.
So if you are to be a bestman or indeed have been asked to give a speech at a special occasion then you know where you can get come?
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This is what Neil had to say about his experience of being a bestman.
'Hello to all
Just wanted to let you know that my day as best man went brilliantly. I was also toastmaster for the day, so constantly organising everyone for welcoming bride and groom, gathering for pics, announcing dinner and introducing the other speakers etc.
I can honestly say that hardly a nerve hit me all day. My year of preparation with Toastmasters paid off more than I could have possibly imagined.
And the great thing? If you remember my icebreaker, I said that I was trying to use PMA (positive mental attitude) to envisage everyone telling me how great the speech was and how they enjoyed it. Well, that's all I heard during the evening and again the following morning as we were having breakfast at the hotel. People were even telling my partner how confident and un-nervy I looked throughout the speech.
I have rarely been so proud of myself and I would like to thank all of you for your advice and support throughout this last year, your input has been invaluable.
Unfortunately, at the moment I am unable to attend this week, but will hopefully see you all at the next meet after that.
Neil'
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