Making Connections

Why am I still an IBM Toastmaster now that I have retired from IBM?

The obvious answer is that I still want to improve my communication skills: whether it is to continue to develop the confidence and composure to be in front of an audience to MC an event, or to have a chance to practice giving speeches in subject matters (such as globalization, history or diversity) that I care about, or to learn to control my inner doubts and nervousness when asked to talk about something impromptu.

Retired or not, I still nurture a dream to become a motivational speaker--some day.

At my age, I don't know I am that serious about pursuing that dream. Along the way I came to know there is non-verbal communication that is deeper and arguably more inspiring than the technical aspects of speech making. The most basic attribute of communication is making connections with others. And just being present at a TM meeting--listening attentively and supporting the room--is an act of making connections.

Practice making connections is probably the not-so-obvious reason why I am an IBM Toastmaster.

Collaboration at Work

After Tuesday's US, China Town Hall Meeting, we received this nice message from National Committee thanking the Rochester community (RCTC, UMR, Mayo and citizen groups) on making it a special, memorable event:

Thanks for the article, report, and pictures. The kids look adorable! I’m amazed that the performance went on despite the vile weather! And 40 people is terrific considering the obstacles…

Hank was VERY impressed, especially by the interest evinced by the people with whom he spoke, and by the Mayo Clinic. He told me that he expected the fine medical facility; what surprised him was the humanity of the place, the obvious effort to treat people as people and not as interesting or challenging diseases.

It has been a pleasure working with you on CHINA Town Hall.

Note: PB article and photo's can be found on the Kiwanis West Web Site.