Toastmasters-ATribe

In a Ted Talk, American author Simon Sinek spoke about the Navy SEALs. Navy SEAL is the most elite military force in the United States, trained specially for a critical mission involving high stakes Each member of the team is the epitome of agility, endurance and resilience

Yet, supreme physical strength does not confirm anyone a seat in this elite team.

Simon describes a long screening process where candidates are put through tough terrains and obstacles to judge their attributes. Apart from physical fitness, each candidate is tested for their trustworthiness, their team spirit and whether they place the group's interest ahead of personal interests. What emerges from the entire process is not just a team of superfit individuals but rather, a Tribe.

We here at Toastmasters are one such Tribe - a group of people that uplift one another in spirits and wisdom. The strength of this tribe lies in the numbers and diversity – thousands of members belonging to wildly different backgrounds with wildly diverse experiences coming together once a week to learn and grow

No wonder, the tribe has been a perfect resource for first fallbacks and second opinions to individual members’ dilemmas. More than a resource, it has been an engine for personal growth. It is said that every person is the average of the people he hangs out with. The Toastmasters Tribe is the intellectual hangout of each member that drastically uplifts their averages.To a keen observer, it may reflect that this piece has zero reference to Public Speaking or Leadership –the two hallmarks of Toastmasters This deflection is not by accident but rather by design. I believe that these hallmarks may drive people into the club, but once inside, it is only those with shared sentiments and a feeling of belongingness to the Tribe that stay put.

Here’s my heartiest greeting to all members of this tribe I express my gratitude for uplifting me in spirits and wisdom

Gaurav Jain

Chartered Account and Entrepreneur Toastmasters Club of Guwahati