Farewell to Redmond Toastmasters

Farewell Speech - December 15, 2007 (Black Bear Restaurant, Bellevue, WA)

Good evening fellow toastmasters,

Today will be my last day of attending the club meetings. I will be moving back to India next week. I would like to take this opportunity to tell you all how much I am indebted to this club and to all of you.

I vividly remember the first day that I came to this club. The diversity of the members and the friendly atmosphere attracted me. I remember Paul calling me by name and that too enunciating my name properly! Then there were the speeches. They captivated my heart. I did not check out any other club. I knew I have come to the right one.

There have been many memorable speeches and instances. It would be an injustice if I select only a few of them. However, I would like to mention a few.

I remember trying to control my tears listening to John Stilz's speech on volunteering. Katherine inspired us by taking us through the Yellow brick road with Dorothy and her friends. Dennis tried to educate us on the Faults that were not his. Ferrin and Phil Jensen gave insight into their political views. Paul and Dale Hauer taught us how to be good toastmasters. John Spaith kept us grinning from ear to ear. Jeranice entertained us with her impromptu and vivid speeches. Stuti told many stories.

I can just go on and on... Every meeting had its own diversity and there are always something to carry back home – something inspirational, something to chew up on, or something to laugh on. One common aspect of every meeting is that it involves learning and fun.

I looked forward to attending every meeting, except of course, when I had to speak:) I still have butterflies in my stomach when I think of speaking. But once I complete the speech, it is a great relief – the day is made for me.

I treasure the autographs that you all gave in the form of feedback notes. Some of you took the extra effort to provide me elaborate feedback over and above the normal evaluation. Everyone was ready to give feedback and suggestions. And I felt free to approach anyone asking for help. A special thanks to all of you.

It feels great when seasoned speakers in the pack give you a pat on the back. I shall always cherish the memory of these instances. It means a lot for a novice like me. The concept of giving feedback and evaluations helped me appreciate their importance in daily life. I started putting more conscious effort into giving positive and constructive feedback at work and at home.

The roles of timer, grammarian and wizard of ahs also taught me lessons. One of the major lessons is the art of listening. I had noticed that sometimes, I used to be so involved in framing what I had to say, that I missed listening to what the other person was saying. I have become more conscious of this defect now.

I also started looking for good and creative uses of the language everywhere. One day while attending a meeting, I started taking the role of wizard of uhs, noting down the ums and uhs of each speaker. It was more interesting than the meeting itself. See, I even found a new way to enjoy the otherwise dull meetings through Toastmasters!

I was introduced to many writers, books and movies through Toastmasters, either while looking for speech material or while listening to speeches. I read at least 5 books this year after hearing about them in our meetings. The speeches also help you learn more about different cultures. We have a good diversity in this group. We got opportunities to learn about life in China, South America, India, Iran, South Africa and so on.

And then there is fun. Every meeting has its share of memorable fun. John Spaith had introduced us to Cicero, whose one hand was immobilized, struggling to hold his single piece robe from falling off, while giving a rabble rousing speech. He also introduced me to the concept of planting questions and answers in the audience to enhance the message. Leo's humor has also kept us rolling in laughter.

I found Toastmasters not only as a club for helping you perfect your speech, but also a great place for learning and practicing valuable lessons for life and career. I have recommended Toastmasters to all my colleagues and friends.

All in all, I had a great time with this club. I am indebted to each and every one of you for giving me this opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you for making me feel at home and encouraging me. You have encouraged me to commit myself to attaining my goals in Toastmasters. I will surely miss you all.