This meeting was a refresher on the basics of a Toastmasters meeting. 

Lora led as Toastmaster and reminded us that the transfer of the lectern occurs by handshake.  Historically, a handshake was used to show an enemy that one wasn’t carrying a weapon.  We are not enemies – though some of us might argue that the Table Topics Master in general and the Table Topics Master who calls on a role player in particular might qualify as an enemy.  However, we do pass the lectern via handshake.  That’s true for speeches and table topics.  Shake hands before you speak, and shake hands after.

Wendy – the enemy for this particular meeting – called on Corky, Carol, Jason and Taline.  Corky, who repeatedly delivers fantastic table topics, suggested practicing table topics naked at home and delivering a response with enthusiasm even if the topic is a boring one.  Carol indicated that, given the opportunity, she would go back to hear Lincoln deliver the Emancipation Proclamation.  Jason explained that he joined Toastmasters to improve his speaking, develop his leadership and make some friends.  Taline (who, as Madam Table Topics Master knew, also served as Timer for the meeting) described her various fears – fish, roaches, malpractice, and turning 35. 

We had only one speech this meeting, but it was wonderful.  Amy walked us through the various speeches in the Competent Communication Manual and explained how each helps us develop various skills.  She also reminded more experienced Toastmasters that the manual can be repeated more than once.

Rey generally evaluated and Albert (who as usual took more time than he had) evaluated Amy’s speech.  We were reminded to make eye contact, to stay conversational, and to offer a beginning, middle and closing in each speech, even the table topics.

We learned, we laughed, and we wrapped up early.  But for the table topic controversy (which likely existed only in the head of the recap author), it all went beautifully.

New members – do not hesitate to ask any of us for help when you take on a role or have questions.  And don’t forget that we have mentors available for you.  Ask for one.  Be one.  We’re all about building better speakers and a stronger club.

  • Best Table Topic:  Jason
  • Best Speech:  Amy
  • Best Evaluation:  Albert
  • Best Humor:  Corky
  • Most Enthusiastic:  Corky

P.S.  Upon further reflection, it appears that Corky and Jason were also role players who were tagged for table topics.  Corky was grammarian, and Jason was invocator.  But they are really good at table topics and seem to love having an audience so they may not share the “enemy” sentiment expressed in this recap. 

P.P.S.  In fairness to Wendy, we did have a small meeting, so role players were fair game.

P.P.P.S.  Table topics are good for us.   And they can be fun.  The author hereby retracts all negative statements delivered in this recap.  For the new folks, know that you are not alone in getting stressed out by table topics.  It’ll get easier.  We promise.