Toastmaster Zhou B. introduced the meeting with thoughtful reflections about leadership: to build a ship, a leader does not ask his/her team to fetch wood, rather he/she will evoke the appeal of the ocean. With those inspiring words, Zhou introduced his helpers: Cara S. , Grammarian and Saher A., Timer.
The Word of The Day was ” Ostentatious”, meaning ” overly elaborate or conspicuous.”
Julie S. presented “Diet and Exercise: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” She asked the group to stand up and do some quick exercises as part of her introduction  to illustrate that exercise is good for you. She then reminded us of the importance of eating and exercising right to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Exercise will increase your vascular and muscular health, improve your sleep, increase your energy levels and help fight depression. Eating right means balancing your diet and controlling your portion size. To sum, do the right thing, it’s good for you.
Neva C. presented “Think of your ears.”, an informative speech about hearing loss. Did you know that hearing loss is irreversible and that permanent hearing loss occurs if you are exposed to 85 decibels for 8 consecutive hours? Using exact language and expressive hand gestures, Neva gave a very effective description of the anatomy of the ear and made a very convincing case for taking simple steps to prevent hearing loss.
Bill S. presented “ Feeding the Hungry Ghosts- A Compassion Building Practice.” in which he shared how during his annual meditation retreats, all participants had to offer a share of their meals to the Hungry Ghosts before they could eat. In Zen literature, Hungry Ghosts are described as having d quite visually, with necks as thin as needles, so very little food can pass through and great distended bellies, so they are ravenous. They are described as being in continual torment because they have this great hunger that can not be satisfied. In the process of learning about Hungry Ghosts, Bill learnt about his own feelings about food. He also developed an acceptance and compassion for people who are afflicted with addictions , which are manifestations of Hungry Ghosts.
Kiki N, presenting project #2 of the Story telling manual “ Streaking and in no hurry to grow up.” In this coming of age story, Kiki took us back to one of her teen- age summer adventures where with her friends Jessica, Katie and the dog Sackett, she decided to undertake a rite of passage to adulthood: streaking in the neighborhood! The excitement soon devolved into sheer terror when the girls got split up and were followed by a mysterious car. Thankfully they all made it back home without getting in trouble with their parents. Kiki’s conclusion was that being a child was not such a bad thing after all.
Lidia S., Table Topics Master asked members of the audience to relate what lessons of leadership they might have learnt in their various roles as a Toastmaster. Neva C. was voted best table topic for her thoughts about gaining in confidence as a result of the support received from her fellow club members.
Paula L. was voted Best Evaluator.
Our next meeting is September 16.
What do Mauritius Island, fashion design, Vaclav Havel, Poutine and the Emerald City have in common? Me! All these ways have led me to ( drum roll...) the Seattle Sunrise Toastmasters where friends and great speakers are made! I look forward to sharing my stories with you!
