The Value of Toastmasters for Me

Laura Stewart

It has been a lifelong dream of mine to be a motivational speaker. Once I made a recent decision to retire, I have been thinking of creating the many opportunities of how I can be of service to others. I realized that Toastmasters would be a perfect experience to prepare me to achieve my goals.

I believe that I am a natural-born storyteller. Being the third of six children, my first captive audience was my younger brother and sisters. For years, I entertained (some call it babysitting) by gathering my audience on the bed as I told tales with a Texan's gift of exaggeration. My reputation grew as our family got larger and included co-workers and friends. I find it incredible the insatiable appetite people have to feel uplifted and giddy.

Upon my recent retirement, I have had many moments of reflection on my life and deciding on which qualities and gifts I have to use to carry me into the next chapter of my life. It is totally my gift of telling tales and making others laugh. Nothing gives me more delight than to see someone who was feeling blue begin to chuckle and see their burden lightened — even for just a moment.

I believe that Toastmasters will be the perfect vehicle to help me refine my skills and find my authentic voice. I have great admiration of the Afterburners group as I realize the wealth of integrity and sense of service the members of this group have. I have found a safe haven to help me get settled up with my fears and anxieties as I gain the courage and confidence needed to become a public speaker. From there, the opportunities are limitless!

Laura Stewart