Dear Fellow Toastmasters,

Last year ended on a very tragic note and it will continue for many years as the Tsunami survivors try to get their lives back. I hope that all of you have taken a moment to do what you can to help, whether it was to send a donation or some other activity that will help these broken families and people to get their lives back together.

It’s life’s events, such as this disaster, that will make you want to be a better speaker. It is the events in life that will move you, move you to speak up and to speak out. Wouldn’t it be nice to be comfortable speaking up when you want to speak your mind?

The best way to learn that is to hope you’re called on during Tabletopics. I know many if not all of us have at one time or another dreaded hearing our name called after a question is asked. As uncomfortable as it may be, it is the way you’ll become good at speaking off the cuff, either at work or in a social situation. It is only be removing yourself from your comfort zone that you will improve your skills and grow.

You can get some idea as to what the questions might be at the next meeting by looking at the “topic” or theme of the meeting. For instance, this week, which should be no surprise, is “New Year’s Resolutions.” Take a moment to think about what kind of questions might be asked before you even get to the meeting. What might you talk about if you’re called on?

Remember, although you should challenge yourself to answer the question asked, you are always welcome to talk about anything for the 1-2 minutes that the floor is yours! You can always answer a question that was asked previously of another toastmaster. Whatever you do, make the effort to talk for a minimum of one minute. Like everything else in life, the more you do it, the easier it will become.

See you on Thursday and remember, speak out, speak up, speak often!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• Congrats to our newest member, Jackie Goldberg, who joined us in our last meeting of the year. Our heartiest welcome, Jackie!
• Our year-end holiday party at the lovely home of Arnold and Carolyn Goldman was a smashing success. Bouquets to our charming hostesses; we can't thank them enough for their generous hearts. A crystal gift of appreciation from all of us was presented to them.  
• To all of our newest members: You will be inducted at our forthcoming meeting. See you there!