The Benefits of Community

Who does not want to be accepted as they are?

After five years of coming to Toastmasters, I have learned many benefits.

I often mention that it is like a family. Ignore this if you don't get along with your family.

Yesterday I watched an episode of Oprah's Super Soul Sunday on YouTube. She was interviewing her long Gary Zukov. He wrote a book called, "Seat of the Soul." Oprah credits him with a life changing epiphany.

In the talk he mentioned that community separates people, because you have to be like the other to be accepted. However, in Toastmasters, the only limitations are what you place on yourself. You have to be over the age of eighteen to join. They do have speech courses for younger kids. Toastmasters encompasses people from all backgrounds and age groups. I have met a woman who immigrated from Lebanon. There is a young man from Nigeria, who has become one of my close friends. I will go to his wedding next month. I have made friends with people older and younger than myself.

Getting involved is the best way to meet new people. You can work at your own pace. You have the opportunity to select which areas you want to work in. Go to as many events that you would like. You can attend meetings in any country. There are contests, conventions, and collaborations that take place all the time. It is all about people helping people.

I have a dear friend, who likes to say that "There is not a person in the room, that is not rooting for you."

At Toastmasters it is our mission to provide a supportive and positive learning environment.

The real value in Toastmasters is the community. I am grateful for the experience that I have had and for being given the opportunities to grow and learn alongside some of my closest friends.

Join us at Inspirational Leaders Toastmasters Club on the first and third Wednesday of the Month at 6PM at Inwood Athletic Club, 3000 W Jefferson Street, in Joliet.