By Cyndra Melville, DTM, LGET

I joined Toastmasters in July of 1997, just ten short years ago, as a Charter Member of AgMasters. It seems impossible, now to imagine my life without it. Originally, I joined to become a better speaker. I had reached the “wise woman” years (50+) and wanted to share what I had learned with others. I had created a seminar in which I could share some of my learning that had helped me greatly. I invited another woman to do the seminar with me because I was afraid to speak in front of the group (usually only 5 or 6) and she was very confident. This turned out to be a disaster. My helper was confident in talking and talking and talking. She rambled on, seldom getting to the point. We had scheduled four seminars and completed them. I was out of the seminar business, deflated and about $1,000 poorer. But, I still had this burning desire to share. I often attended Comm-University classes. Several of the speakers were so good. If only I could speak as well as they did.

Listen! What’s that sound? It’s opportunity knocking! A Toastmasters group is forming right here at work and during lunch break. I joined up right away. I was still terrified to speak in front of the group. But they applauded after anything I said during the meeting.

I gave my Ice Breaker speech. I spent weeks on it. I was trying to condense 50 plus years of living into a 4 – 6 minute speech. I was so terrified that I didn’t know if I would pass out or throw-up. I sat down with relief. Everyone applauded. Then, I got a dozen or more little slips of paper saying that I shouldn’t have looked at my notes so much. I was devastated. All of that work and I felt that I got no reward for it. I missed the next few meetings. Several people told me that they missed me. Then it was renewal time. I would either get in and really do it or get out. My original goal to be a better speaker was still valid. I decided to stay in and really do it!

Now I have my DTM and am working on a second one. I have served as Area Governor, twice (Both times Select Distinguished.); Division Governor (Presidents Distinguished); Conference Treasurer; Conference Co-Chair; Lt. Governor - Marketing; and now as Lt. Governor –Education and Training.

What have I gained? A promotion at work, self confidence, higher self esteem, a better speaker, a better leader, just to name a few.

My goal for District 22 this year is to provide exceptional Educational experiences for all who wish to have them. I want to fertilize the roots of our organization to give it power and stability not just for this year but for years to come.