~Paul Arden
I remember walking into Miss Helmick's room after school. She had a stool in the front of the room and asked me to take a seat. I could feel my palms instantly begin to sweat, and my legs felt weak. As I scooted up onto the stool, she asked me to read a piece of prose that she had prepared. I swallowed and felt like I might be able to muster out a squeak audible enough for the chalkboard to hear me.
I carefully situated the paper in front of my face, hoping it would shield me from direct eye contact. As I proceeded with my head down, she thoughtfully stopped me and asked me to lower the paper. My cheeks instantly turned fire engine red. "What am I doing here I thought to myself?"
Fast forward to my Junior year and I ended up competing at State in Prose and Poetry. My experience on the Speech and Debate team was an invaluable tool that I have translated into various roles throughout my life. I love being up in front of a room and sharing information with others. I think one of my biggest passions is sharing knowledge and inspiration. How about you? I have moments of not feeling 'ready' or not being 'prepared enough,' but those moments are often overshadowed with excitement and joy!
I'm so grateful for my experience on the Speech Team. My exposure and involvement with public speaking has allowed me to jump into situations and really participate with life. I love people. I get so excited when I'm given the opportunity to participate in inspiring others. Today I am grateful for the awkward freshman who struggled with confidence and finding her voice. I could have very easily darted from my first tryout with Miss Helmick, but I put in the time and have benefited on many levels.
As you move through your day, I invite you to look how far you've come. Maybe you're not where you'd ultimately like to end up, but as long as you are putting yourself out there and trying, you'll get there! You are brilliant darling, so go make it happen!
May You Sweetly Seek,
In Gratitude:)
Sarah