Reflections of Service

Right before the 2008 World Championship of Public Speaker, 2008-2009 District 46 Lt. Governor Marketing (he's gone on to be the 2010-2011 District 46 Governor), Steve Chen stopped me for a quick snapshot. He went his way, I went mine...not thinking all that much about that particular moment. Later that evening, he approached me at the head table of the President's Dinner Dance and handed me a copy of that photo. Later, as I emptied the pockets of my tux in the stillness of my hotel room, I noticed what he had written on the back of the picture,

"Congratulations Tim! Good luck on being the ID. Don't forget us!"

Those words stopped me in my tracks and became a personal call-to-action for me. As I worked with the other members of our Board to shape fundamental, evolutionary changes for the organization the comment above and the notes that I took while interviewing with our district leaders on the convention floor shaped so much of how I conducted myself.

Two weeks ago I had the opportunity to address the delegates at the 2010 Annual Business Meeting. While I don't remember exactly what I said (no, I didn't exactly "write" the speech beforehand), I did recently find the index card that I jotted down some single keywords that I wanted to be sure to express.

Mr President, fellow Toastmasters, "As I stand before you on this stage, I am filled with several emotions...

Fear - Since the last time I stood before you, without the benefit of a script I managed to forget about 30 seconds of a two minute speech.

Humility - Because you elected me in spite of my brain lock moment and entrusted me with one of the most rewarding personal growth experiences of my life.  I can only hope that my efforts proved worthy of that trust and I thank you for giving me the gift of this opportunity.

Pride - In being part of two Boards that helped to fundamentally change our organization. First with Global Representation & Support and now with the revisions to the recognition programs. The fact that I played a small role in making the organization that we love better for us all is something that I will forever be proud of.

Appreciation - To those that I've had the opportunity to work with the past two years. From the districts that trusted me with their members and leaders, and to all those that stood alongside me and picked me up when I stumbled in this role. I was lucky enough to have hit the partner lottery and work with Charlotte Howard and Pamela McCown...two amazing ladies that had the grace to put up with me. I also really appreciated Patrick Cassidy, who always helped to remind me to keep my priorities aligned. Thanks also to some amazing leaders; Past International Presidents Bob and Jana Barnhill for their love, friendship, support and advice. Past International Directors, Art Nieto and Dee Dees for their exceptionally wise advice throughout the years; Paula Tunison, whose friendship and trust is one of the greatest gifts I received; Ralph Wallace, who convinced me that I had the gifts, talents, abilities to be an effective member of the Board; and very special appreciation to Nancy Starr-Cassidy...who saw me when I was invisible and stood next to me with every step of my journey.

Antcipation - Of my return to district 3 and my new role as the Toastmasters Leadership Institute Chairperson.  I'm excited about this new opportunity and look forward to coming home to "play"!

Mr. President...

Comments

[Wendy Hewlett]

Tim,

This is a very inspirational post. I only hope that one day I will be able to be of service to the organization as well.

Thanks for guiding me to your Blog.

Wendy

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