The International Speech Contest was one of my most exciting times since being a part of Toastmasters. I really didn't know what to expect, since I've never partaken of this kind of event before. But the five speakers (George Arndt, Linda Coleman, Ryan Gallagher, Dámaris Thorn and Rose Timmons) showed us what giving a speech is all about.
If you happened to be a judge, and all of the speakers presented first class speeches, then you had no choice but to pick the best subject matter; and even that could be a hard call. For instance, George talked about appreciating life; Linda spoke on the things that would make you have a successful life; Ryan talked on not taking life and our loved ones for granted; Dámaris spoke on life's small appreciative gifts; and Rose on why in life do we pay for bottled water when tap water is cheaper and sometimes better.
Do you see my point? All of these subjects were worthy of attention, and the speakers delivered their messages well. But in this life we have winners and losers. First place went to Linda; 2nd to George; and 3rd to Ryan. Congratulations to all of the speakers.
Phillip Silas