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Everybody Speaks
My first venture into the world of public speaking was in a required class during the second semester of 8th grade. Friends who had taken it first semester warned me of what lay ahead. Ten speeches of ten minutes each were assigned, with the topic announced one week in advance.
I dreaded this class. Even though I followed the instructions as to the outline, it was the delivery that was worse than death each week. The more I practiced, in front of my bedroom mirror and with my mother as a single audience member the less confident I became when it was my turn to present in front of the class. I wasn’t alone in how I felt, but that did not make me feel any better.
The final assignment was to teach the class how to make or do something and I immediately thought of the egg carton Christmas ornaments we made at my house each year. I brought enough for everyone and set out the markers, glue, and glitter as I began to speak. This was fun! Even the boys showed interest in this project and I received a round of applause at the end.
What was different? Why did I enjoy preparing and delivering this speech so much? I believe it was because all eyes were not focused on me during my presentation and I could relax and share my knowledge and experience with the audience.
I successfully dodged public speaking for the next decade, until I received word…
