HAPPY CRESTING

It is still fresh in my memory, my first day of stepping into a toastmaster meeting where the table topic master invited me to speak about a topic and I was utterly clueless about the topic, fumbled, had numerous long pauses, and couldn’t even speak for 1 minute. I was pushed into uncharted territory and individuals by continuously attending Toastmasters gatherings and adopting roles.

I was surrounded by encouraging people who were eager to help me climb the ladder of public speaking. Weeks passed, months passed, and years passed. Yet one thing that stayed with me was volunteering at my club for personal development and to help my fellow members. Gradually I could understand the basic of public speaking. Still, I have a long way to go. Even now, when I get onto the platform to give a presentation, I get butterflies in my stomach for few seconds. I am sure, each member in the District has such experiences. We’ve all learned to maneuver and swim through life’s whirlpools.

Our organization’s membership is rising at an exponential rate, similar to how the waves are massive and forceful. There are certain aspects of life that are beyond your control and some aspects that are in our control. Reformation and alignment of the district are something beyond our control.

As we all move again to an unchartered territory with a tag of new District numbers, let’s look back and re-kindle our thoughts. It is a time for reflecting on what has been achieved, what could have been better, and the people who have supported us along the way. It is a time to think about our legacy and what we have accomplished in our lives with learnings of the toastmasters. It is a time to be thankful for the good times and to take stock of the lessons we have learned.

One thing that stands out throughout our organization’s 99year history, which was built on the foundations of integrity, respect, service, and excellence, is our commitment to our club. As we are just months away as one combined District, let’s take a vow in making our clubs stronger and achieving excellence.

The journey towards excellence may be hard like surfing the waves. They are huge and powerful and challenge your dexterity and balance. They cannot be controlled no matter how hard you try. But you can learn to surf them. In surfing them, you use the power of the waves to propel you forward. while maintaining a fine equilibrium. Then the waves (process of achieving excellence by contributing to our clubs regularly) that looked like a menace in the beginning, become your greatest asset

On board surfers, Happy cresting!!!

Ahappy frisson engulfs me at the mere thought of the upcoming fission. Come July 2023, we shall be yet again divided into two districts. The moment will be very poignant, though. Because for the last five years we have all been together. We’ve weathered the storms of unprecedented times, and yet what has stood out as strong and unrestrained is our spirit.

When the world came to a standstill, we found ways to meet online. Not only we met, but we grew. Reviving ancient bonds far and wide and exponentially forming new ones. Just as a mighty oak grows from a little acorn, so has our district grown to become the world’s largest district. Growth cannot and should