Toastmaster

The Toastmaster is a meeting’s director and host. You won’t usually be assigned this role until you are thoroughly familiar with the club and its procedures. If your club’s customs vary from those described here, ask your mentor or the club vice president education (VPE) for pointers well before the meeting.

Begin preparing for your role several days in advance. You can use the Toastmaster's Check List to help you prepare. You’ll need to know who will fill the other meeting roles and if a theme is planned for the meeting. You’ll also need an up-to-date meeting agenda. Get this information from your VPE.

Next, contact the general evaluator and make sure you’re both working from the same agenda. Ask the general evaluator to call other members of the evaluation team – speech evaluators, Topicsmaster, timer, grammarian, Ah-Counter – and remind them of their responsibilities. Remember, as the director, you’re responsible for ensuring all of the meeting’s players know their parts and hit their marks.

To help the Topicsmaster, create a list of program participants already assigned a speaking role so he or she can call on others first.

As the Toastmaster, you’ll introduce each speaker. If a speaker will not write his or her own introduction, you will write it. Introductions must be brief and carefully planned. Contact speakers several days before the meeting to ask about:

• Speech topic and title
• Manual and project title
• Assignment objectives
• Speaker’s personal objectives
• Delivery time

You need all of these elements to create your introductions. Remember to keep the introductions between 30-60 seconds in length.

For more information about introductions see When You’re the Introducer (Item 1167E) and The Better Speaker Series module Creating an Introduction (Item 277).

Of course, you want to avoid awkward interruptions or gaps in meeting flow so your last preparation step before the meeting is to plan remarks you can use to make smooth transitions from one portion of the program to another. You may not need them, but you should be prepared for the possibility of awkward periods of silence. 

The Big Show
On meeting day, show up early. You’ll need time to make sure the stage is set for a successful meeting. To start, check with each speaker as they arrive to see if they have made any last-minute changes to their speeches – such as changing the title.

You and the speakers will need quick and easy access to the lectern. Direct the speakers to sit near the front of the room and make sure they leave a seat open for you near the front.

When it’s time to start the program, the club president calls the meeting to order. Sometimes he or she will make announcements, introduce guests or conduct other club business before introducing you.

When you’re introduced, the president will wait until you arrive at the lectern before being seated. (This is why you should sit at the front of the room.)

Pay attention to the time. You are responsible for beginning and ending the meeting on time. You may have to adjust the schedule during the meeting to accomplish this. Make sure each meeting segment adheres to the schedule. If time allows, you can make some brief remarks about Toastmasters’ educational program for the benefit of guests and new members before you move forward with the introductions:

• Introduce the general evaluator as you would any speaker. Remain standing near the lectern after your introduction until the speaker has assumed control of the lectern, then be seated. The general evaluator will introduce the other members of the evaluation team. 
• Introduce the Topicsmaster as you would any speaker. Remain standing near the lectern after your introduction until the speaker has assumed control of the lectern, then be seated.

In some clubs it is customary for the Toastmaster and the person assuming control of the lectern to exchange a handshake. This isn’t required, but it’s sometimes done to help new members recognize when control of the lectern passes from the Toastmaster to the speaker and vice versa.

After the Table Topics session has concluded, most clubs begin the speaking program. Introduce each speaker in turn.

You will lead the applause before and after the Table Topics session, each speaker and the general evaluator. When each presenter has finished, you return to the lectern so the speaker can be seated and you can begin your next introduction.

At the conclusion of the speaking program, request the timer’s report and vote for the best speaker, if your club offers this award.

Briefly reintroduce the general evaluator.

While votes are being tallied, invite comments from guests and announcements (such as verification of next week’s program).

Present trophies or ribbons as practiced by your club.

Request the thought for the day if your club provides for this. Be sure to find out when your club does this during a meeting. Many clubs end on this note while others prefer to begin a meeting with this thought in mind.

Adjourn the meeting, or if appropriate, return control to the club president.

Serving as Toastmaster is an excellent way to practice many valuable skills as you strive to make the meeting one of the club’s best. Preparation is key to your success.

Topicsmaster

With TABLE TOPICS™, the Topicsmaster gives members who aren’t assigned a speaking role the opportunity to speak during the meeting. The Topicsmaster challenges each member with a subject, and the speaker responds with a one- to two-minute impromptu talk.

Some people underestimate the Topicsmaster role’s importance. Not only does it provide you with an opportunity to practice planning, preparation, organization, time management and facilitation skills; your preparation and topic selection help train members to quickly organize and express their thoughts in an impromptu setting.

Preparation is the key to leading a successful Table Topics session:

• Several days before the meeting, check with the Toastmaster to find out if a theme meeting is scheduled. If so, prepare topics reflecting that theme.
• Confirm who the prepared speakers, evaluators and general evaluator will be so you can call on other members at the meeting to respond first. You can call on program participants (speakers last) at the end of the topics session if time allows.
• Select subjects and questions that allow speakers to offer opinions. Don’t make the questions too long or complicated and make sure they don’t require specialized knowledge.
• Phrase questions so the speakers clearly understand what you want them to talk about.

Remember, too, that your job is to give others a chance to speak, so keep your own comments short.

Table Topics usually begins after the prepared speech presentations, but there are variations from club to club. Ask the Toastmaster or vice president education if you’re unsure of when your portion of the meeting begins.

When the Toastmaster introduces you, walk to the lectern and assume control of the meeting:

• Briefly state the purpose of Table Topics and mention any theme.
• If your club has a word of the day, encourage speakers to use that word in their response.
• Be certain everyone understands the maximum time they have for their response and how the timing device works (if the timer hasn’t already done so).

Then begin the program:

• Give each speaker a different topic or question and call on speakers at random.
• Avoid going around the room in the order in which people are sitting.
• Don’t ask two people the same thing unless you specify that each must give opposing viewpoints.
• State the question briefly – then call on a respondent.
• You may wish to invite visitors and guests to participate after they have seen one or two members’ responses. But let visitors know they are free to decline if they feel uncomfortable.

Watch your total time. You may need to adjust the number of questions so your segment ends on time. Even if your portion started late, try to end on time to avoid the total meeting running overtime.

If your club presents a best Table Topics speaker award:

• Ask the timer at the end of the Table Topics session to report those eligible for the award. Though the times vary among clubs, generally a participant is disqualified for stopping 15 seconds prior to the allowed time or speaking 15 seconds beyond the allowed limit.
• Ask members to vote for best Table Topics speaker and pass their votes to the sergeant at arms or vote counter.

If your club has a Table Topics evaluator, ask for his or her report and then return control of the meeting to the Toastmaster.

TABLE TOPICS™ Speaker

Most of the talking we do every day – simple conversation – is impromptu speaking. Yet for some members, TABLE TOPICS™ is the most challenging part of a Toastmasters meeting.

Table Topics continues a long-standing Toastmasters tradition – every member speaks at a meeting. But it’s about more than just carrying on an anxiety-ridden tradition. Table Topics is about developing your ability to organize your thoughts quickly and respond to an impromptu question or topic.

Table Topics usually begins after the prepared speech presentations. The Toastmaster of the meeting will introduce the Topicsmaster who will walk to the lectern and assume control of the meeting. The Topicsmaster will give a brief description of the purpose of Table Topics and mention if the topics will carry a theme.

The Topicsmaster will state the question or topic briefly and then call on a respondent. Each speaker receives a different topic or question and participants are called on at random.

When you’re asked to respond to a topic, stand next to your chair and give your response. Your response should last one to two minutes.

Now, take a deep breath and get ready to be remarkable!

General Evaluator

Improving the process
while overseeing the execution.

Don’t worry; there’s no capital punishment during Toastmasters meetings. Unless, of course, the grammarian is in a bad mood.

If you think of a club meeting as a project, then you can see the general evaluator as a kind of project manager. As GE, your responsibilities include:

• Ensuring the speech and leadership project evaluators know their responsibilities
• Supervising the timer, grammarian and Ah-Counter
• Evaluating everything that takes place during the club meeting
• Making sure each activity is performed correctly

Several days before the meeting, contact the person who will be Toastmaster of the meeting and confirm the meeting program. You should also develop a checklist to follow during the meeting so you don’t have to keep all the details in your head. Some clubs have a prepared checklist. If your club doesn’t have one, ask the Toastmaster to help you create your own checklist.

When discussing the meeting program with the Toastmaster, ask what evaluation format to use. Typically, an evaluator is assigned to an individual, but sometimes evaluations are done by panels. The general evaluator may set up any evaluation procedure he or she chooses, but it should fit into the meeting program. Remember, too, that every evaluation must be brief and complete. Review the Effective Evaluation manual for different evaluation formats.

You’ll also need to contact members serving as:

• Timer
• Grammarian
• Ah-Counter
• Individual evaluators

Remind them of their assignments, and brief evaluators on their responsibilities, the members they will evaluate and the evaluation format to use. Make sure the evaluators understand that evaluation is a positive, helping act that enables fellow Toastmasters to develop their skills. Point out that an evaluation should enhance the speaker’s self-esteem and encourage evaluators to prepare thoroughly for their role. Recommend that they call the member they’ve been assigned to evaluate to discuss specific project objectives.

Your final task before the meeting is to prepare a brief verbal explanation detailing:

• The purpose, techniques and benefits of evaluation so guests and new members will better understand the function of evaluations.
• How evaluation is a positive experience designed to help people overcome flaws and reinforce good habits in their presentations.

On meeting day:

• Arrive early.
• Make sure all evaluators are present and that they have the appropriate speaker or leader’s manual.
• If an evaluator is absent, consult with the vice president education and arrange for a substitute.
• Ask each evaluator if he or she has any questions about the project objectives to be evaluated, verify each speaker’s time and notify the timer if there are any changes.
• Take your seat near the back of the room. This will ensure you have a good view of the meeting and all its participants.

The Toastmaster of the meeting usually introduces the general evaluator before the Table Topics portion of the meeting. But your club may have a different order for introductions, so check with the Toastmaster or VPE before the meeting if you’re not sure when you’ll be introduced.

When you’re introduced:

• Stand by your chair and deliver the explanation you prepared.
• Identify the grammarian, Ah-Counter and timer and have these members briefly state the purpose of their jobs.
• Request the word of the day, if your club has one, from the grammarian and then be seated.

During the meeting, use your checklist and take notes on everything that happens (or doesn’t, but should). For example: Is the club’s property (e.g. trophies, banner, educational material) properly displayed? Were there unnecessary distractions that could have been avoided? Did the meeting, and each segment of it, begin and end on time?

Study each participant on the program, from the person giving the invocation or thought for the day to the last report by the timer. Look for good and less than desirable examples of preparation, organization, delivery, enthusiasm, observation and general performance of duties. When it’s time to begin the evaluation portion of the meeting, the Toastmaster will introduce you, again. This time, you’ll go to the lectern and introduce each evaluator. After each recitation, thank the evaluator for his or her efforts.

Finally, give your general evaluation of the meeting:

• Use your checklist and the notes you took during the meeting.
• Phrase your evaluation so it is helpful, encouraging and motivates club members to implement the suggestions.
• You may wish to comment on the quality of evaluations. Were they positive, upbeat, helpful? Did they point the way to improvement?
• When you’ve completed your evaluation, return control of the meeting to the Toastmaster.

Being general evaluator is a big responsibility and it is integral to the success of every single club member. People join Toastmasters because they have a goal – they want to learn something. The club is where they learn. If the learning environment isn’t focused and fun, members won’t learn what they joined to learn. Your observations and suggestions help ensure the club is meeting the goals and needs of each member.

And what do you get out of the deal? You get the chance to practice and improve your skills in critical thinking, planning, preparation and organization, time management, motivation and team building!

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Ah-Counter

Helping members off their crutches

The purpose of the Ah-Counter is to note any word or sound used as a crutch by anyone who speaks during the meeting. Words may be inappropriate interjections, such as and, well, but, so and you know. Sounds may be ah, um or er. You should also note when a speaker repeats a word or phrase such as “I, I” or “This means, this means.” These words and sounds can be annoying to listeners. The Ah-Counter role is an excellent opportunity to practice your listening skills.

Several days before the meeting, use the information in A Toastmaster Wears Many Hats or in the appendix of the Competent Communication manual to prepare a brief explanation of the duties of the Ah-Counter for the benefit of guests.

When you arrive at the meeting, bring a pen and blank piece of paper for notes, or locate a blank copy of the Ah-Counter’s log, if your club has one, from the sergeant at arms.

The president will call the meeting to order and introduce the Toastmaster who will, in turn, introduce you and the other meeting participants. When you’re introduced, explain the role of the Ah-Counter. Some clubs levy small fines on members who do or do not do certain things. (For example, members are fined who use filler words or are not wearing their Toastmasters pin to the meeting. A fine is usually about five cents, acting more as a friendly reminder than a punishment.) If your club levies fines, explain the fine schedule.

Throughout the meeting, listen to everyone for sounds and long pauses used as fillers and not as a necessary part of sentence structure. Write down how many filler sounds or words each person used during all portions of the meeting.

When you’re called on by the general evaluator during the evaluation segment, stand by your chair and give your report.

After the meeting is adjourned, give your completed report to the treasurer for collection of fines if this tradition applies to your club.

Grammarian

The syntax sentinel 

Before the Meeting
One benefit of Toastmasters is that it helps people improve their grammar and word use. Being grammarian also provides an exercise in expanding listening skills. You have several responsibilities: to introduce new words to members, to comment on language usage during the course of the meeting, and to provide examples of eloquence.

Several days before the meeting, select a "word of the day" (if this is done in your club):

• It should be a word that will help members increase their vocabulary – a word that can be incorporated easily into everyday conversation but is different from the way people usually express themselves.
• Adjectives and adverbs are more adaptable than nouns or verbs, but feel free to select your own special word.
• Print your word, its part of speech (adjective, adverb, noun, verb) and a brief definition in letters large enough to be seen from the back of the room.
• Prepare a sentence showing how the word is used.

Also, prepare a brief explanation of the duties of the grammarian for the benefit of the guests.

At the Meeting
Before the meeting begins, place your visual aid at the front of the room where everyone can see it. Also get a blank piece of paper and pen ready to make notes, or get a copy of the grammarian’s log, if your club has one, from the sergeant at arms.

When introduced:

• Announce the word of the day, state its part of speech, define it, use it in a sentence and ask that anyone speaking during any part of the meeting use it.
• Briefly explain the role of the grammarian.

Throughout the meeting, listen to everyone’s word usage. Write down any awkward use or misuse of the language (incomplete sentences, sentences that change direction in midstream, incorrect grammar or malapropisms) with a note of who erred. For example, point out if someone used a singular verb with a plural subject. “One in five children wear glasses” should be “one in five children wears glasses.” Note when a pronoun is misused. “No one in the choir sings better than her” should be “No one in the choir sings better than she.”

Write down who used the word of the day (or a derivative of it) and note those who used it correctly or incorrectly.

When called on by the general evaluator during the evaluation segment:

• Stand by your chair and give your report.
• Try to offer the correct usage in every instance of misuse (instead of merely announcing that something was wrong).
• Report on creative language usage and announce who used the word of the day (or a derivative of it) correctly or incorrectly.

After the meeting, give your completed report to the treasurer for collection of fines, if your club does this.

Timer

One of the skills Toastmasters practice is expressing a thought within a specific time. As timer you are responsible for monitoring time for each meeting segment and each speaker. You’ll also operate the timing signal, indicating to each speaker how long he or she has been talking. Serving as timer is an excellent opportunity to practice giving instructions and time management – something we do every day.

Here’s how to succeed as timer:

• Before the meeting, contact the Toastmaster and general evaluator to confirm which members are scheduled program participants. Then contact each speaker to confirm the time they’ll need for their prepared speech. 
• On meeting day, retrieve the timing equipment from the sergeant at arms. Be sure you understand how to operate the stopwatch and signal device, make certain the timing equipment works and sit where the signal device can be seen by all. 
• The Toastmaster of the meeting will usually call on you to explain the timing rules and demonstrate the signal device. 
• Throughout the meeting, listen carefully to each program participant and signal them. Generally, Table Topics speakers should be +/- 15 seconds of allowed time; prepared speakers must be +/- 30 seconds. However, these times may vary from club to club. In addition, signal the chairman, Toastmaster and Topicsmaster with red when they have reached their allotted or agreed-upon time. Record each participant’s name and time used. 
• When you’re called to report by the Topicsmaster, Toastmaster or general evaluator, announce the speaker’s name and the time taken. Mention those members who are eligible for awards if your club issues awards. 
• After the meeting, return the stopwatch and timing signal device to the sergeant at arms. Give the completed timer’s report to the secretary so he or she can record it in the minutes (if this is done in your club).

Take on this role and the new habits formed will serve you well in your private life and your career. People appreciate a speaker, friend or employee who is mindful of time frames and deadlines.

Evaluator

People join Toastmasters to improve their speaking and leadership skills, and these skills are improved with the help of evaluations. Members complete projects in the Competent Communication and Competent Leadership manuals and you may be asked to evaluate their work. At some point, everyone is asked to participate by providing an evaluation. You will provide both verbal and written evaluations for speakers using the guide in the manual. You’ll always give a written evaluation for leadership roles, though verbal evaluations for leaders are handled differently from club to club. Sometimes verbal evaluations are given during the meeting and sometimes they are given privately, after the meeting. Check with your vice president education (VPE) or the Toastmaster if you’re not sure of your club’s method.

By giving feedback, you are personally contributing to your fellow members’ improvement. Preparing and presenting evaluations is also an opportunity for you to practice your listening, critical thinking, feedback and motivation skills. And when the time comes to receive feedback, you’ll have a better understanding of the process.

Meeting Speaker

No doubt you’ve guessed that the speaking program is the center of every Toastmasters meeting. After all, what’s Toastmasters without the talking? But members don’t just stand up and start yakking. They use the guidelines in the Competent Communication (CC) manual and the Advanced Communication Series (ACS) manuals to fully prepare their presentations.

The CC manual speeches usually last 5-7 minutes. ACS manual project speeches are 5-7 minutes or longer depending upon the assignment.

Every speaker is a role model and club members learn from one another’s speeches. Prepare and rehearse to ensure you present the best speech possible. Don’t insult your fellow club members by delivering a poorly prepared speech. However, it’s also true that no speech is perfect. So, get out there and try! Here’s what to do:

• Check your club’s meeting schedule regularly to find out when you’re assigned to speak. Begin working on the speech at least a week in advance. That way, you have enough time to devote to research, organization and rehearsal.
• If you don’t write your own speech introduction, make sure the Toastmaster of the meeting prepares a good one for you.
• Several days before the meeting, ask the general evaluator for your evaluator’s name. Talk with your evaluator about the speech you’ll give. Discuss your speech goals and personal concerns. Let your evaluator know where you believe your speech ability needs strengthening, so he or she can pay special attention to those aspects of your presentation. Remember to bring your manual to the meeting.
• You should arrive at the meeting early to check the microphone, lighting and anything else that could malfunction and ruin your talk. Give your manual to your evaluator before the meeting starts and discuss any last-minute issues with him or her. Sit near the front of the room and carefully plan your approach to the lectern and your speech opening.
• During the meeting, give your full attention to the speakers at the lectern. Don’t study your speech notes while someone else is talking. When you’re introduced, smoothly and confidently leave your chair and walk to the lectern. After your speech, wait for the Toastmaster to return to the lectern, then return to your seat. Listen intently during your evaluation for helpful hints that will assist in building better future talks.
• After the meeting, reclaim your manual from your evaluator. Discuss any questions you may have concerning your evaluation to clarify and avoid any misinterpretations.
• Finally, have the vice president education (VPE) initial the Project Completion Record in the back of your manual.

You’ll enjoy a growing sense of confidence as you repeat these steps with new speech projects. Don’t be afraid to do the work, enjoy the applause and reap the educational benefits. Your courage will be rewarded!

  “Just let them fly as they wish” - Oct. 28, 2012

“Take care, Teddy, come back to Taiwan if you can’t find a job.  This was the first time for Teddy to go abroad.  Grandpa & grandma still worry much about Teddy. Grandma was in recovery from a car accident. She and grandpa insisted on going to the airport to see Teddy set off for Australia.  He chose to be away from home and start his new life there.  We wish the first step might change his life.

Early this year, Teddy told me one day, “Mom, I wanted to quit my job.  I am not afraid of working hard, but I was unhappy.” I said, “Teddy, many people are jobless at this moment, you have a job now, even though only 22K.  Your company is running well now; at least this company won’t go bankrupt.” Teddy worked at the production controlled dept. at a big car parts company.  The heavy work load put a lot of pressure on him.  He often works until midnight at the factory, so the production line could be running 24-hr nonstop.  The company doesn’t pay extra for working overtime. “Mummy, you always encouraged us to study or go abroad.  I want to quit my job and work in Australia.”  I said to him, “my son – if you have a dream, just do your best to pursue it while you are still young.  Just fly as you wish!” 

As parents, we always worry about Teddy. We wished he would move back home to save money.  But he seemed not appreciating it.  He spent a lot of money buying the fashion smartphone. My friend said to me, “I know you are a great Mum, your son is fully grown, and with you still keeping him, it would make other people think that he is a momma's boy, you shouldn’t be worried.  Maybe he wants to escape from you. He may think sometimes you are doing too much for him.  Just let him follow the tide! Just let him fly as he wishes. It’s just like flying a kite; we wish it would fly as far as we can, but we are afraid it’ll fly away. The worst case would be it flew back home.  Life is short, be happy and positive. Maybe, one day, your child will appreciate you being there for him when he is tired of flying.”

My son, Teddy, has been working in Australia for over 4 months.  He enjoyed travelling there. He had worked at the farm, local amusement show and restaurant, made new friends, learned and explored new things every day. He also works at the meat processing plant now.  He works at the beef dept.  He says it’s horrible to see live bulls in and being cut to pieces. He works very hard, but he is very happy.      

  My Fellow members! Does the education or employment system have problems? Youngsters nowadays can’t expect any possible future working in Taiwan. A Master’s degree student couldn’t find a good job in Taiwan. Why young man would rather work in a strange country with different culture, language, weather than in our own country?  They could choose to wear uniforms working in a comfortable office such as a bank or some big company, instead of choosing to live and work in a totally different country. However, it would be a life’s experience in learning how to survive in a difficult situation, able to face any kinds of challenge. You can say they are “Holidaymakers” or “Taiwanese laborers”, but they are “Adventurers”.  Their experiences are more about learning and exploring life away from home than merely sweating for bucks or bulls. Next time, if your son or daughter tells you that they like to work abroad, just let them fly as they wish. 

   A12  - Apr. 27, 2010

這是 我的 A12  "interpreting poetry" 內容

A Psalm of Life      by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow 

Tell me not, in mournful numbers,        勿以哀傷的詩句向我訴說

Life is but an empty dream!                 人生只不過是場空虛的夢

For the soul is dead that slumbers         因為怠惰之靈魂無異死亡

And things are not what they seem.     事物非外在所顯示之模樣

Life is real! Life is earnest!                  人生真實!人生嚴肅!

And the grave is not its goal;               墳墓非其最終目的

Dust thou art, to dust returnest,           你來自塵土，歸至塵土

Was not spoken of the soul.                並非針對靈魂而言

Not enjoyment and not sorrow,           非享樂，亦非傷悲

Is our destined end or way;                 我們的目標或前途

But to act, that each tomorrow             要努力以致每個明日

Finds us farther than today.                 發現我們比今日更進步

Art is long, and Time is fleeting,               技藝永恆，光陰易逝

And our hearts, though stout and brave,        我們內心雖堅強，勇敢

Still, like muffled drums, and beating        仍如悶聲鼓敲擊著

Funeral marches to the grave.                   像送葬行列邁向墳場

In the world's broad field of battle,      在世界廣大戰場上，

In the bivouac of Life,                         在人生如寄的旅途中。

Be not like dumb, driven cattle!           別像沉默被驅策的牛群

Be a hero in the strife!                         要當一個奮鬥中的英雄

Trust no Future, howe'er pleasant!       勿信未來，無論多麼愉快

Let the dead past bury its dead!          過去的就讓它過去

Act, -- act in the living Present!           努力，努力於今朝

Heart within, and God o'erhead!         盡心力，上蒼庇祐

Lives of great men all remind us            偉人的生平提醒我們

We can make our lives sublime,           我們亦可使生命崇高

And, departing, leave behind us            一旦離開這世界時

Footprints on the sands of time;           留下生命的足跡

Footprints, that perhaps another,          或許另一航海者

Sailing o'er life's solemn main,              航行在人生艱困的大海

A forlorn and shipwrecked brother,      孤苦遭遇船難的弟兄

Seeing, shall take heart again.               見到足跡重拾勇氣

Let us, then, be up and doing               讓我們起而行

With a heart for any fate;                     以面對任何命運之心            

Still achieving, still pursuing,              繼續成就，際續追求

Learn to labor and to wait                    學習努力與等待。

This poem taken from Longfellow's Voices of the Night (1839) seems to give us a great deal of good advice. It tells us not to waste our time but to be up and doing; not to be discouraged by sufferings or failures but to have a heart for any fate; not to judge life by temporary standards but to look to eternal reward.

選取自朗非羅(1839出版)的“夜之音”，這首詩提供我們許多忠告。它告訴我們不要浪費我們的光陰而要起而行﹔不要因受苦或失敗感到沮喪，而要擁有面對任何命運之心﹔不要以暫時的標準評判人生，而要期盼永恆的犒賞。

Henry W(ads Worth) Longfellow (1807-1882): American poet and college professor, extremely popular and almost universally respected during his lifetime. His poetical style is simple, sincere, and musical. The melody of his poetry is unsurpassed by that of other American authors.

朗非羅 (1807-1882) 美國詩人及大學教授，在他有生之日極受大眾歡迎並且幾乎受到全世界的敬仰。他的詩的文體簡易，誠懇，富節奏感。他的詩的韻律是其他美國詩人的詩的韻律所無法超越的。

Longfellow combined considerable learning with an enlightened understanding of the people, and he expressed the lives and ideals of humbler Americans in poems that they could not forget. Amist the rising democracy of his days, Longfellow became the national bard. His more popular poems strongly reflected the optimistic sentiment and the love of a good lesson that characterized the humanitarian spirit of the people.

朗非羅將淵博的學識和對人們透徹的瞭解結合，同時他將較低階層之美國人的生活和理想表達於令他們難以忘懷的詩篇中。在他那時代的民主高漲聲浪中，朗非羅成為全國的遊唱詩人。他那些較受歡迎的詩篇強烈地反應樂觀的情感和顯示民眾人道精神特徵之良好訓示的喜愛。

A psalm of life是第一首被翻譯成中文的英詩 也是Albert年少時第一次接觸到的英文詩 印象特別深刻.

以下這首The Tide Rises, the Tide Falls 寫於1879年 Longfellow當年 已年過七十 垂暮老人在黃昏中面對悠悠大海 望著潮起潮落 抒發出“人生天地間 忽如遠行客 鴻爪印雪泥”的慨嘆. Albert 也快了,心想把這首詩背下來 哪一天 可學詩人到黃昏的海邊吟哦一番

                   The Tide Rises, the Tide Falls

The tide rises, the tide falls               

The twilight darkens, the curlew calls;      水鳥

Along the sea-sands damp and brown      詩褐的海灘

The traveler hasten towards the town,

And the tide rises, the tide falls.

Darkness settles on roofs and walls,

But the sea, the sea in the darkness calls;

The little waves, with their soft, white hands,

Efface the footprints in the sands,          抹去足跡

  And the tide rises, the tide falls.

The morning breaks; the steeds in their stalls  馬在廐中

Stamp and neigh, as the hostler calls;         蹬足嘶鳴

The day returns, but nevermore

Returns the traveler to the shore,

  And the tide rises, the tide falls.

                     The Road not Taken         by Robert Frost

TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could  
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

金色的樹林裡有兩條路岔路 
可惜我不能沿著兩條路行走； 
我久久地站在那分岔的地方 
極目眺望其中一條路的盡頭； 
直到它轉彎，消失在樹林深處。

然後我毅然踏上了另一條路，
這條路也許更值得我嚮往，
因為它荒草叢生，人跡罕至；
不過說到其冷清與荒涼，
兩條路幾乎是一模一樣。

那天早晨兩條路都鋪滿落葉，
落葉上都沒有被踩踏的痕跡。
唉，我把第一條路留給未來！
但我知道人世間阡陌縱橫，
我不知未來能否再回到那裡。

我將會一邊嘆息一邊敘說，
在某個地方，在很久很久以後；
曾有兩條小路在樹林中分手，
我選了一條人跡稀少的行走，
結果後來的一切都截然不同。

「未走之路The Road Not Taken」是美國詩人佛羅斯特 (Robert Frost，1874-1963)，最有名的一首詩，他的文字雖然樸實，節奏卻鮮明而意境優美，並且能透過直接的描述，牽引出豐富的意識的聲音，傳達的哲理深沉而餘韻無窮。

佛羅斯特說：「詩應始於歡娛，而終於智慧。」(A poem begins in delight and ends in wisdom)，憑著卓越的聲韻技巧和哲理內涵，終使他成為二十世紀最受美國人喜歡的詩人。在他一九六三年逝世之前共得過四次"普利茲詩歌獎"(Pulitzer Prize for Poetry)，成為美國非正式的桂冠詩人，譽滿天下。

這首詩表面上描述旅人在樹林裡遇到岔路而躊躇不決的心情，實際上卻是在告訴我們 人生道路是靠自己決定的，有得有失，能捨能得。

Albert之所以選The Road not Taken 這首詩 是因為與它有一段因緣 而且詩的背後反映了我們人生旅途中 面對難以抉擇時的徬徨 以及那種終須孤注一擲的決斷 是每個人都有的經驗 也比較容易體會詩中的隱喻

 幾年前,在英文課中,偶然與外師提及王鼎鈞的一篇寓言散文,他立即問我,那是 Frost 的The Road not Taken嗎? 當時我並不知道Frost和他的詩. 之後我找來這首詩,發現內容與王文不盡相同,但顯然的, 王鼎鈞必因此詩而有感而發, 後來 有一部電影,片名已記不得,演一名年輕學子,愛好寫作, 因緣際會與老Frost (由史恩康納萊主演)成為忘年之交,因Frost 的教導與啟發,終於以傲人的成績畢業. 劇中對Frost當年的聲望與性格多所著墨,也引起我嘗試閱讀Frost 的興趣.

The Road not Taken “假如當年 我選擇…而不選擇…不知…” 你是否也曾這麼問自己呢?

                        A Father’s Prayer       by Douglas MacArthur

Build me a son, O Lord,

  Who will be strong enough to know when he is weak,

  And brave enough to face himself when he is afraid;

  One who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat,

  And humble and gentle in victory.

Build me a son whose wishbone will not be where his backbone should be;

  A son who will know Thee

  And that to know himself is the foundation stone of knowledge.

Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort,

A49: In-Coming Div. I Governor?! (Entertaining Speaker #4 The Dramatic Talk)

“Bruce, since Kim Chou was assigned the chartered Div. I Governor, no other member from Area I1 ever served as Div. I Governor. In order to strike a balance among Area I1, I2 and I3, I hope to pick up a senior member from Area I1 to be the next Div. I Governor. I think you are the best candidate. Would you please consider taking the job as the in-coming Div. I Governor?”

No, I replied immediately but promised I would be Div Governor one day. To be frank with you, I hate to be a leader and make decisions. Why? My room is always in a mess, a mess out of control. Can you imagine it took me almost a month to find out this Entertaining Speaker manual, which I finished 8 years ago. That’s why I always asked myself, “ Since I can’t manage myself well, how can I be a good leader?” Of course you can guess the very reason I decided to be Area B1 Governor was to achieve my DTM. So I told myself I would be Div. Governor after I retire or when I am less busy.

In my opinion, there are so many enthusiastic and talented leaders in central Taiwan that Jennifer would find her successor very quickly. When I met Jennifer again, to show my concern, I asked her,” Jennifer, you must have found the right person to be the next Div. I Governor, mustn’t you?” I expected Jennifer would smile and tell me she had found her Mr. or Miss Right. However, Jennifer just looked at me and smiled,”Bruce, I am still waiting for you to say Yes.” Jennifer continued,” Don’t you think I was stupid to say Yes when Joy Tsai asked me the second time to be her successor?”

“Was I stupid? Jennifer’s remarks pushed me into a dilemma-to say yes or not to say yes? Oh! My God! What should I do? Show me if You think I should take the job.

Nothing would happen, right? Wrong! Something did happen! The next morning on my way to buy breakfast, a bug hit me in my left eye, just like a Japanese kamikaze bomber launched a suicide attack to Pearl Harbor. Ouch! It hurt! I couldn’t open my eyes for a while. What was worse, on my way home, a bird’s dropping did drop on my shirt. How come these weird things that never happened in my life did happen on a single morning? Was it merely a coincidence or was it a message from the Heaven?

Then I got a bad piece of news. My most respected Charles Chan, one of the most senior members in central Taiwan, who always helped and encouraged me, was in ICU-Intensive Care Unit. I was shocked and wondered what happened to him? “Oh my God, please make Charles better and better day by day. I would promise to do whatever You want me to.”

That night I had a dream. In the dream Charles picked me up to a mountain peak where we could enjoy watching the beautiful valley below us. “Bruce, before I found out this good place, I did get lost several times. However, I didn’t give it up. I persisted and I made it finally. Just like my driving the car to find out this nice place, being a leader and taking your people to achieve your goal isn’t terrible at all. On the contrary, you would learn a lot during the journey. Div. I needs you. Kim, Jim, Joy and Jennifer are all very kind, enthusiastic and capable leaders. They would help you a lot whenever you have trouble. Of course I would always be your side.”

When I woke up, I found myself smiling. I decided to take the job as the in-coming Div I Governor and I was sure Charles would get better and better.  Last but not least, I can’t guarantee what I would perform-see, I am not so charming as Jennifer, I am not humorous and I can’t even dance. But I promise I would try my best to do the job. And I’m sure you all help and support me, don’t you?

Toastmaster!     

奧巴馬就職演講全文  2009/01/25

My fellow citizens: I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors.

I thank President Bush for his service to our nation...

(APPLAUSE)

... as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath.

The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age.

Homes have been lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly, our schools fail too many, and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable, but no less profound, is a sapping of confidence across our land; a nagging fear that America 's decline is inevitable, that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real, they are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this America : They will be met.

(APPLAUSE)

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

(APPLAUSE)

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less.

It has not been the path for the faint-hearted, for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame.

Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things -- some celebrated, but more often men and women obscure in their labor -- who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life. For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West, endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died in places Concord and Gettysburg ; Normandy and Khe Sahn.

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions -- that time has surely passed.

Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America .

(APPLAUSE)

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done.

The state of our economy calls for action: bold and swift. And we will act not only to create new jobs but to lay a new foundation for growth.

We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together.

We will restore science to its rightful place and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality...

(APPLAUSE)

... and lower its costs.

We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age.

All this we can do. All this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions, who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short, for they have forgotten what this country has already done, what freemen and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose and necessity to courage.
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What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them, that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long, no longer apply.

MR. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works, whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified.

Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end.

And those of us who manage the public's knowledge will be held to account, to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day, because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched.

But this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control. The nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous.

The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on the ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart -- not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

(APPLAUSE)

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals.

Our founding fathers faced with perils that we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations.

Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake.

And so, to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and we are ready to lead once more.

(APPLAUSE)

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with the sturdy alliances and enduring convictions.

They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use. Our security emanates from the justness of our cause; the force of our example; the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy, guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort, even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We'll begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people and forge a hard- earned peace in Afghanistan .

With old friends and former foes, we'll work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat and roll back the specter of a warming planet.

We will not apologize for our way of life nor will we waver in its defense.

And for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that, "Our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken. You cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you."

(APPLAUSE)

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness.

We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus, and nonbelievers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth.

And because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect.

To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict or blame their society's ills on the West, know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.

To those...

(APPLAUSE)

To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.
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(APPLAUSE)

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds.

And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders, nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages.

We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service: a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves.

And yet, at this moment, a moment that will define a generation, it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.

It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break; the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours.

It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new, the instruments with which we meet them may be new, but those values upon which our success depends, honesty and hard work, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism -- these things are old.

These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history.

What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence: the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed, why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall. And why a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

(APPLAUSE)

So let us mark this day in remembrance of who we are and how far we have traveled.

In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by nine campfires on the shores of an icy river.

The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood.

At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive, that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet it."

America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words; with hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come; let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

Thank you. God bless you.

(APPLAUSE)

A49: In-Coming Div. I Governor?! (Entertaining Speaker #4 The Dramatic Talk)

“Bruce, since Kim Chou was assigned the chartered Div. I Governor, no other member from Area I1 ever served as Div. I Governor. In order to strike a balance among Area I1, I2 and I3, I hope to pick up a senior member from Area I1 to be the next Div. I Governor. I think you are the best candidate. Would you please consider taking the job as the in-coming Div. I Governor?”

No, I replied immediately but promised I would be Div Governor one day. To be frank with you, I hate to be a leader and make decisions. Why? My room is always in a mess, a mess out of control. Can you imagine it took me almost a month to find out this Entertaining Speaker manual, which I finished 8 years ago. That’s why I always asked myself, “ Since I can’t manage myself well, how can I be a good leader?” Of course you can guess the very reason I decided to be Area B1 Governor was to achieve my DTM. So I told myself I would be Div. Governor after I retire or when I am less busy.

In my opinion, there are so many enthusiastic and talented leaders in central Taiwan that Jennifer would find her successor very quickly. When I met Jennifer again, to show my concern, I asked her,” Jennifer, you must have found the right person to be the next Div. I Governor, mustn’t you?” I expected Jennifer would smile and tell me she had found her Mr. or Miss Right. However, Jennifer just looked at me and smiled,”Bruce, I am still waiting for you to say Yes.” Jennifer continued,” Don’t you think I was stupid to say Yes when Joy Tsai asked me the second time to be her successor?”

“Was I stupid? Jennifer’s remarks pushed me into a dilemma-to say yes or not to say yes? Oh! My God! What should I do? Show me if You think I should take the job.

Nothing would happen, right? Wrong! Something did happen! The next morning on my way to buy breakfast, a bug hit me in my left eye, just like a Japanese kamikaze bomber launched a suicide attack to Pearl Harbor. Ouch! It hurt! I couldn’t open my eyes for a while. What was worse, on my way home, a bird’s dropping did drop on my shirt. How come these weird things that never happened in my life did happen on a single morning? Was it merely a coincidence or was it a message from the Heaven?

Then I got a bad piece of news. My most respected Charles Chan, one of the most senior members in central Taiwan, who always helped and encouraged me, was in ICU-Intensive Care Unit. I was shocked and wondered what happened to him? “Oh my God, please make Charles better and better day by day. I would promise to do whatever You want me to.”

That night I had a dream. In the dream Charles picked me up to a mountain peak where we could enjoy watching the beautiful valley below us. “Bruce, before I found out this good place, I did get lost several times. However, I didn’t give it up. I persisted and I made it finally. Just like my driving the car to find out this nice place, being a leader and taking your people to achieve your goal isn’t terrible at all. On the contrary, you would learn a lot during the journey. Div. I needs you. Kim, Jim, Joy and Jennifer are all vey kind, enthusiastic and capable leaders. They would help you a lot whenever you have trouble. Of course I would always be your side.”

When I woke up, I found myself smiling. I decided to take the job as the in-coming Div I Governor and I was sure Charles would get better and better.  Last but not least, I can’t guarantee what I would perform-see, I am not so charming as Jennifer, I am not humorous and I can’t even dance. But I promise I would try my best to do the job. And I’m sure you all help and support me, don’t you?

Toastmaster!     

Keynote Speaker   - Apr. 21, 2012 Spring Convention

來自專題演講者的問候

Greetings to all of the Toastmasters of District 67:

    I am very honored and excited to be joining you in District 67 at this fantastic conference as we "Take the Wheel and Lead".

    We all know the theme of Toastmasters is: Toastmasters International, Where Leaders are Made. When we choose a theme for our organization or conference, it plays an important role in bringing people and events together. As I reflect on your conference theme of, Take the Wheel and Lead, it is easy to see how this enhances and reinforces the message from Toastmasters International. Putting these two statements together, you see a very clear picture of our organization and how we work together to make a difference in the world.

    When we develop and enhance our leadership and communication skills, we are taking the wheel of our lives to steer in a direction for success. As we embark on this District 67 Spring Conference, take an opportunity to look back to where we have come from – not only as an organization or district, but especially as individuals. How many lives have we seen transformed by building communication skills? How many opportunities have we embraced with the new leadership skills we have learned along the path in Toastmasters? How many of us can say that we are at a place in our lives that we couldn’t even imagine before getting involved in Toastmasters? I know, for certain, that I am one of these people, and perhaps, you are, too.

    So, now what do we do now? Well, Take the Wheel and Lead – go out and bring more people into our organization. Help transform the lives of people you know – people you work with, your family, and your friends. Take the opportunity this weekend to meet new people and share new experiences. Show the people around you, by your actions what a positive difference true leadership can make.  Embrace the opportunities to lead and provide vision for people to follow on the path to success. Help others become better leaders and communicators so they can then do the same in their lives. We make a difference one step at a time, one moment at a time. Take the time today, take a step, and take the wheel.

    It is truly a pleasure to be with each and every one of you in exciting District 67 as we set off for new destinations. We realize that there is NO limit to what we can do together as we transform our actions for the positive good as we, Take the Wheel and Lead in all that we do to make a positive difference in our world.

    Respectfully Yours,

Tammy A. Miller

Tammy A. Miller, DTM

Past International Director

C5 Your Body Speaks

1. Use stance, movement, gestures, facial expressions and eye contact to express your message and achieve your speech's purpose. 

2. Make your body language smoothe and natural

C7 Research Your Topic

Your speech will be more effective if you can support your main points with statistics, testimony, stories, anecdotes, examples, visual aids and facts. You can find this material on the Internet, at a library and in other places.

Use information collected from numberous sources and carefully suport points iwth specific facts, excamples and illustrations, rather than with just your own opinions.

C8 Get Comfortable with Visual Aids
Visual aids help an audience understand and remember what they hear; they are a valuable tool for speakers. The most popular visual aids are computer-based visuals, overhead transparencies, flip charts, whiteboards and props.

The type of visual aid you choose depends on several factors, including the information you wish to display and the size of the audience. Visuals must be appropriate for your message and teh audience, and be displayed correctly with ease and cofindence.

Obectives:
1. Select visual aids that are appropriate for your message and teh audience.

2. Use viaul aids correctly with ease and confidence.

time: 5 ~ 7 minutes.