There’s a first time for everything at Speakeasy Toastmasters
‘I don’t have time’ is a common refrain. All of a sudden, there is an abundance of time.
Many of our commonplace activities have been removed. Going to theatre and shows, attending sporting events, socialising and holidaying abroad are all off limits for the foreseeable future.
That extra time can be gainfully filled. Notice how many people are engaged in home improvements. It is also an ideal opportunity to try online learning and personal development.
That is why Toastmasters and developing communication skills is an attractive option at the moment. Speakeasy Toastmasters continues to meet online on the ZOOM platform. And guests are welcome to join in.
Come along and observe what the club is all about. There is no obligation to join or to speak unless you wish to do so. Speakers challenge themselves by presenting interesting speeches, positive feedback is offered and an entertaining impromptu session rounds out proceedings.
All that is missing is the enjoyable cup of tea but members and guests can brew their own at home.
At the last meeting, the Table Topics Session was conducted by Anne O’Donovan. She focused on firsts.
The first memory of school proved a popular question, evoking many memories. Dromahane School was remembered for its Dickensian state - very basic toilets, open fires and classrooms accessed through other classes. The drive home from school was entertainingly recalled.
Liam Flynn regaled his online audience with coming home from school in rural Wexford. On rainy days (it actually rained in the Sunny South East), his father would give lifts to all and sundry. The Volkswagen Beetle was packed up with wet infants.
On one occasion, twenty children, complete with school bags and wellingtons, crowded into the Beetle. Or does the passing of time tend to exaggerate our recollections?
Michael recalled how a very patient teacher took him aside at break time and, using the visual aids of pencils, explained the complexity of addition! It was a light bulb moment on his educational journey.
Other firsts were shared. Mary Moynihan spoke about her experiences of working away from home for the first time. She remembered the comment of one flat mate - “You have a beautiful accent but I can’t understand a word you are saying!”
Recollections of first holidays ranged from the sun haven of Cyprus to the wet and windy summers of a caravan park in Ballyheigue.
The next Meeting takes place on this Thursday night, September 24 on Zoom at 8pm. Guests are welcome to join in. Please check in by 7.45pm. Meeting ID - 85374941910 Passcode - 585914.
For more information please check out website speakeasytoastmasters.com or on Facebook. Alternatively, please contact Club Secretary, Sean Corcoran- 087 2654784.