Contributed by Kianna Wilson
What can Toastmasters offer you? That is a question every potential member should ask before joining any Toastmasters club. After all, you should know what you are getting into before joining a club right? Well, as a Toastmaster myself, I feel I can better speak on this subject.
Before I joined Toastmasters I was incredibly shy, and I had problems even talking to another person. The very thought of being approached by someone else terrified me, it scared me enough that I never took opportunities when they came my way. I felt as though I didn't deserve anything because I lacked the courage to speak up and make myself known.
It took my father bringing me to a Toastmasters meeting to peak my interest. In the course of one meeting they gave speeches that painted stories, and evaluations that gave insightful feedback. I was surprised upon learning there was a club designed to help with public speaking, so I went back a few more times before I got the courage to participate in Table topics.
From that 1 minute shamble full of stutters and pauses, I knew I was going to join Toastmasters. You see, while I absolutely failed to deliver an eloquent answer to the proffered question, I was still able to provide one nonetheless. And I only had that courage from visiting the club multiple times. Afterwards, they gave me a smile and told me I had done a good job.
For the first time in quite a while, talking to someone didn't seem as scary as I made it out to be. Gone was the giant, vexing, wolf that stood in my way swiping its vicious claws at me every time I tried to get by. Instead, there stood a bear with knowledgeable eyes, soft velveteen paws, and a bowl of porridge that was neither to hot or to cold waiting for me to succeed.
I had gone from the little red riding hood, afraid of the big bad wolf, to Goldilocks surrounded by friendly people waiting to help her through. This of course didn't happen overnight, but it did come to pass over time. Since joining Toastmasters I have blossomed into an advent story teller unafraid of venturing into uncharted waters.
I have also had the pleasure of seeing other newcomers grow into wonderful leaders, setting out on their own quests because of the courage they gained from Toastmasters. The Toastmasters journey is different for everyone who joins, it's not always easy, and it can be scary at times. But the adventure is made easier with the help and encouragement of your fellow Toastmasters. And that hill isn't quite as hard to climb anymore.
Every meeting is different, every member is unique, and every club is it's own family. So, what can Toastmasters offer you? It can offer you a safe, and adventurous place to grow and develop into the leader and warrior you know you can become.
If you are interested in checking out our club, you can join us Tuesday evenings at 6 pm AKDT over zoom. You can find our club website here, and you can text or call 907-539-7111 for more information. I hope to see you there!