DISTRICT DIRECTOR'S ADDRESS

DISTRICT 98

Support and encouragement go a long way

Encouragement and support are two powerful toolsforourwell-being,motivation,achievement, and freedom from fear. Often, encouragement and support are the only things we need to move forward. A kind word, a pat on the back, some recognition and acknowledgment make us feel good and strong, helps erase that feeling of fear, and liberates us to do more and give more. I am certain this holds true for most of us.

Even in the best of times, we look for encouragement and support from our peers, colleagues, friends, and family. And in these trying 18 months of the pandemic, it has been even more necessary. I have become so aware of the importance of extending a helping hand to people around me, to being sympathetic to their problems and issues. I have had to show a lot more empathy, patience, and understanding when my maid has not been able to work because of her problems. But it has helped me to be grateful for what I have and realize how important it is to support.

It is no different in our Toastmasters fraternity. Many of us are spending infinite hours on the computer and suffering from fatigue. Many of us haven’t met friends or socialized and are feeling low. Many of us have had to deal with illness and endure difficult times. But through it all, the encouragement and support of our Toastmasters helped us stay positive, engaged, and cheerful. The weekly zoom meetings, the smiles, the applause, the wonderful speeches, and evaluations, keep us vibrant and hopeful.

Let us remind ourselves of how Toastmasters has become an integral part of our lives and let us encourage and support each other to continue this wonderful journey in Toastmasters.

The encouragement and support of members and leaders help us value what we have and appreciate our organization even more.

So as we begin a crucial month of renewals this September, let us think of all the benefit that we have derived from Toastmasters. Think of the learning, the sharing, the camaraderie, fun and laughter. Let us remind ourselves of how Toastmasters has become an integral part of our lives and let us encourage and support each other to continue this wonderful journey in Toastmasters. Every District leader will encourage you to renew and support you to achieve your goals.

Remember,

‘It doesn’t matter how slow you go, as long as you don’t stop’ ~Confucius

MuktaNadkar, DTM

District Director

Liked this article? Share feedback with Editor