ONE OF MY FAVORITE MEMORIES AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT

“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”— Dr. Seuss

My life has been full, and I have many good memories. Some are fishing with my dad, and my mom taking me shopping to buy an outfit appropriate for singing a solo in The Messiah. I also have fantastic family memories. We lived in Yosemite for four years in the summer, and my dad was a seasonal ranger. There were many fun and educational learning experiences from that time. I have had a great time with friends and good memories with them.

I have learned the importance of embracing these memories. Many of my memories are of people who have passed away, and I carry them in my heart and mind. Even the negative memories have taught me lessons, and I have learned to work through them and let go of them.

Today, I am going to share a memory that changed my life.

I was a senior in high school and serving on the Student Council. I did not run for the position; I was appointed. I am not sure how that happened. I was not popular or friends with anyone on the Student Council. My only extracurricular activities were band and church throughout my high school years. I have no idea who recommended me to be on the Student Council.

It came time to pick the graduation speakers. Of course, there was the Valedictorian, who was chosen by their grades. There was an opportunity for any student to audition to speak at graduation.

In my youth, I pretended to be on a stage, speaking to hundreds of people. I pretended to be a music star. And like most little girls, I pretended to walk down the aisle getting married.

I wanted to speak. I had never spoken to a large group but I wanted the opportunity. I went to the first audition and answered questions from the panel of administrators and teachers. I made the first cut and went to the second interview. This time, I had to present my ideas and potential outline and speak from the lectern. I did this with fear and trembling.

I was selected to give the graduation speech!!!

Before graduation, I wanted a beautiful dress and shoes that would look great. I look back at that and wonder what I was thinking. I wore a cap and gown, no one would see my dress.

Graduation rehearsal was in the morning, and I was already getting nervous. I sat in my seat, wondering if I could do the speech. The rest of the afternoon, I kept busy running around with friends.

The time finally came. The audience consisted of  800 to 1,000 people. I was extremely nervous. When it was my turn, I stood up and my legs were shaking. I walked to the podium, took a deep breath, and gave my speech. I felt like I did a good job and was pleased with myself. My parents and grandparents were very proud of me and told me so.

That speech changed my life. It gave me more confidence, and I found that I liked public speaking. In adulthood, I joined Toastmasters International (a club that teaches public speaking and leadership skills) and have shared my story in several churches.

Today, I speak when I am asked. When I still had a decent voice, I would sing solos. I have developed healthy friendships through the confidence I gained at my high school graduation. I serve on two boards and am involved in the community.

My one experience of public speaking became my gateway to success.

Keep dreaming, cherish your memories, learn from them, and move forward.