Listening is one key to success in life that is neglected often.
When you listen you gather vital information that can come to be useful in making correct decisions.
When you listen you make the other person feel valued. That itself is a key element in building lasting relationships.
When you listen you are showing humility and a willingness to learn. It is quite the opposite of “I know it all” attitude.
When you listen you can avoid the trap of speaking hastily. For when you speak without thinking you say foolish things, and sometimes you speak angrily too.
When you listen you show great understanding. It shows your ability to see all sides of the issue as it helps you to analyse the situation, weigh the pros and cons and come to an effective conclusion.
When you listen you train yourself in the art of reading between the lines. Often what is left unsaid is more important than what people really said.
When you listen you are doing others a great favour. You are sharing with others your precious time. For many in today’s madly busy world are finding it nearly impossible to get a listening ear even within one’s home and with loved ones too.
Let me conclude by saying that listening is one of the great arts of communication, leadership, and human resources management.
It all starts with desire. There should be a burning desire to win. Forget all negative circumstances, people who tell you how what you dream cannot be done, and lack of money.
Secondly, start somewhere. Do not wait for ever planning. Take action even if it be a small step. Each single day do something that will take you nearer to your goal.
Thirdly, look for competition. Athletes and sportsmen do best when the competition is the toughest. Keep yourself motivated and challenged by the best you can compete against in your field.
Fourthly, but of great importance, you need wisdom. Pray to God, ask those who have succeeded in your field to share life lessons they learned, and seek guidance from those who can give you wise counsel.
Fifthly, make mistakes.That is the only way you make progress. I am not asking you to make mistakes through negligence. But I am asking you to be daring in your attempts, to push yourself out of comfort zones, and try your luck at new things you naturally shrink away from doing.
Sixthly, be single-minded in your pursuits. Do not get distracted. Burn bridges behind. Do not look back and wish that you should have remained in your old ways and habits. Instead look forward with determination.
Finally, have a killer instinct. It means that you will not rest until you finish what you have begun to do. It means that you will allow no obstacle, no defeat, no negativity to make you give up in despair. You might feel discouraged at your lack of progress, but you will hold on, fight on, and will not say “quit” until you have won.
My friend, there is a time to prepare the nets. There is a time to launch out from the safety of the shore. There is a time to cast your nets into the deep. There is a time to fight the winds and the waves.There is a time to persevere when absolutely no progress happens.
But the man who wins is the one who while awake or asleep dreams of and acts towards and relentlessly pursues the goal of bringing a boat full of fish to the shore. That is killer instinct that makes winning a habit in life.
These are examples of words of appreciation. They are becoming rare these days. We fail to tell people how good they are when we have the chance and the opportunity. But many pour out words of appreciation when a person lies cold and dead. Isn’t that a bit too late?
Words of appreciation has to be genuine. When said well, it comes out spontaneously.
Words of appreciation reflect truth about a person that he or she has never had a chance to realise for himself or herself. The words of encouragement you speak open up divine possibilities in the life of others. They, in turn, will start to live in expectation and hope of a better tomorrow.
Words of appreciation can change negativity quickly. A wife or husband who hears a word of appreciation from the other will be delighted to act kindly and enthusiastically and to offer help when needed.
Similarly, the life of many students have been changed for the better by one genuine word of appreciation by one of his or her teachers. It takes thoughtfulness on the part of the teacher to appreciate a student. Often, years later, teachers are surprised by their former students who come and tell them of the change words of appreciation had brought in their lives!
In a world where finding fault can easily become a hobby, words of appreciation can build others up. On the other hand, unkind criticism can tear a person down. Therefore you can choose to be one who make others feel valued and cherished.
It was Mark Twain who said “I can live for two months on a good compliment.” William James, American psychologist and philosopher said: “The deepest principle of human nature is a craving to be appreciated.” As long as we are obsessed with ourselves and selfies I doubt if we will ever have a mind to appreciate others. Therefore the first step is to stop looking inwards and instead be genuinely interested in others.
The second step is to look out for opportunities which will present itself to appreciate others. For example, one of your colleagues proposed a business idea in one of your team meetings. Why not preface your next comment with “That was a brilliant idea [Name]. Good that you brought it up.”
The most important step is to be genuine and sincere in your words of appreciation. Sometimes, just an approving look, a nod, a pat on the back (wherever appropriate), a firm handshake, a thumbs up or even a smile will go miles to make the day for someone.
Therefore appreciation is not just words but more importantly an attitude which can make friends and influence people. However, one problem we all have is taking for granted people close to us. Let us take time to appreciate the good food cooked at home for us. Let us be thoughtful to say how tasty it was. Let us learn to appreciate our children helping us with small things.
Let me conclude by saying that we can make this world a better place by being generous with our words of appreciation.
There is no need to be ashamed that you’re passing through a period of depression. It simply means that you’re finding it more than usually difficult to handle some disappointment that came your way.
So accept your depression as real for the moment but it is a phase in life that will pass.
Do not believe the lie, “Everybody is against me and no one cares for me.” During depression self-pity will be at its peak. Do not fall for this trap. Even if no one cares for you, God does. His resources are infinite and he will bring people to you who can help you. Be also encouraged for these are the promises of God:
“Can a mother forget the baby at hear breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!” “Cast all your anxiety on him [God] because he cares for you.”
“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you.”
“The LORD is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Thereofore never lose sight of your dream.
“Yet there’s not much to do, but to bury a man
When the last of his dreams is dead.” So wrote a poet*.
So you should never lose sight of your goals and dreams just because the going is stormy at the moment.
Those who are in depression often think about giving up on life. It is a mad and murderous thought. It is important that you open up and talk with someone whom you trust. You need to know that life is worth holding on to in spite of all the struggles you are passing through right now.
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
*William Herbert Carruth, from Each In His Own Tongue: and Other Poems (1908). Ghosts of Dreams.
Bible Quotes: Isaiah 49:15, 1 Peter 5:7, Isaiah 54:10. Psalm 34:18 (NIV).
If you wish to be a man or woman of impact,
If you wish to do a few some good,
If you wish that others remember you long after you are gone,
Then listen my friend to what wisdom has got to say.
Listen to your heart;
It will tell you what you love to do with joy.
Listen to God;
He will open doors and guide you one step at a time.
Listen to critics;
They will tell you how you will never make it. Smile then. It is just a test of your resolve.
Listen to friends;
There will be one or two to believe in your dream.
Then begin your long journey forward.
Do not think your cause is lost when there are a few setbacks. No dreamer has made it without some loss.
But it is the joy of doing good,
The thrill of making a difference,
The thought of change you are going to bring about
That will keep you going strong.
As time moves on,
Learn to say No
To all that does not add
Anything worth to what you want to get done in life.
You might not be able to please all,
Some who stood with you will no longer along with you walk–
For when you climb higher
The more lonely you are!
It is tough
When people say bad things
About the good you want to do.
But that is part of the game you chose to play
To be a man or woman of impact.
If you truly love to make an impact,
You have to focus hard;
And be single-eyed with no other lesser goals in mind.
But with one aim move on.
Do not scatter light
But shine it with a steady beam!
You can be sure that somewhere down the line
A few will follow your light
And make it shine once more during a darker night!
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
All quotes below are taken from Azquotes
“I’m not afraid of failure; I’m afraid of succeeding at things that don’t matter.” — William Carey
“There is no success without sacrifice. If you succeed without sacrifice it is because someone has suffered before you. If you sacrifice without success it is because somone will succeed after.” — Adoniram Judson
“Let us never forget that what we are is more important than what we do.” — Hudson Taylor
“The eagle that soars in the upper air does not worry itself how it is to cross rivers.” — Gladys Aylward
“We have all eternity to celebrate the victories but only a few hours before sunset to win them.” — Amy Carmichael
“If you have men who will only come if they know there is a good road, I don’t want them. I want men who will come if there is no road at all.”– David Livingstone
“God never uses a person greatly until He has wounded him deeply.The privilege He offers you is greater than the price you have to pay. The privilege is greater than the price.” — Helen Roseveare
“The light that shines farthest shines brightest nearest home.” — Charles Studd (Known as C. T. Studd, who was a famous cricketer who played in the original ashes test).
Sleep is one of God’s best gifts to us. It is sleep that gives us needed rest. It is the time our body finds time to repair itself.
Sleep refreshes, relaxes and revives us. It is not the length of sleep that alone matters but the quality of sleep as well. Getting up in the morning feeling refreshed and excited about the coming day is a sign of good sleep.
Keeping yourself active during the day, engaging in physical activity, and finishing all your assigned work or study for the day is a good way to get a good night’s sleep.
With the arrival of mobile phones, tablets and computers; children have developed a habit of browsing the internet, chatting on social media and gaming long into the night. If you discipline yourselves at a young age to sleep at a regular time early then you can succeed in life.
In fact, there is great wisdom in the saying, “Early to bed, early to rise makes a man, healthy, wealthy and wise.” Perhaps eating less sugar and junk foods can also help you sleep better.
Such good habits can give you a healthy heart, good memory, and a fit body. I believe it is not the quality of the bed you sleep on; but a relaxed mind without worry that enables you to sleep best.
Most of us worry constantly. We worry about our health, our finances, our marriage, our careers, our children, exams and interviews, and our future. Many, if not all, worry about their appearance as well.
Why are we constantly worrying? Even though we know that worry accomplishes nothing positive, for some strange reason people do not stop worrying. Neither you nor me! Why is this so?
Fear and insecurity might top the list of worry-causing factors. We fear almost everything. Starting from fear of the dark and strangers, it can move to fear of failure and rejection and many more of the like.
It is easy to say, “Get rid of worry.” Practically it is difficult to achieve. But it is important that we try.
Most of us worry about tomorrow.It is such a killer disease. That is why Jesus asked us to learn a lesson from the birds of the air. He said that they don’t sow or reap or collect food in barns. Yet their heavenly Father takes care of them.
Yes, through this example, he was trying to get our attention to the fact that it is a complex daily process, worldwide in scope, that God is seeing to everyday without fail.
But that is not all. He asked a question, “Are you not much more valuable than they?” This is another way of asking, “Don’t you know that you are my child and you belong to me because you put your trust in me? Will I fail to meet your life’s daily needs when I’ve taken care of your eternity?”
He also asked us to look at the grass of the field and consider how God has clothed them. The point he wanted to make was that your heavenly Father knows your needs even before you ask him. In another context he said that even a sparrow sold for a small amount does not fall to the ground without your heavenly Father knowing it. Even the very hairs of your head are numbered. Therefore do not be afraid.
The point is that God who does not forget the sparrow will not forget you or any of your needs. Let me conclude by saying that the one way to get out of the habit of worrying is to trust in your heavenly Father’s care. He knows you by name. He knows your inner struggles, conflicts and despair.
What if you knew that he is not pointing an accusing or condemning finger at you! His arms are opened wide. If only you would come to him! It takes time, a lot of time, even a lifetime to learn to trust God’s leading in one’s life. But God is patient. He waits for you to learn to trust him. He wants you to be glad and without worry!
That in no way means life is going to be easy. That in no way means there won’t be sickness, hurt in relationships, or financial difficulties. That in no way means you won’t face any difficulties in your career. But what it means is that your Heavenly Father knows what your are going through; his watchful eyes are on you; and he will provide what you need at the right time of his choosing.
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
This post is based on Matthew 6:25–34, Luke 12:6, 7. Bible
“God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him”
— 1 Peter 5:7 (Bible, Contemporary English Version)
“And when I was burdened with worries, you comforted me and made me feel secure”
— Psalm 94:19 (Bible, Contemporary English Version)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6, 7.
“Worrying is carrying tomorrow’s load with today’s strength- carrying two days at once. It is moving into tomorrow ahead of time. Worrying doesn’t empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.” — Corrie Ten Boom
Eyes can speak without words. It can express love, hate, anger, excitement and so on. Therefore it is the speakers best connect with audiences.
In spite of this fact many beginner speakers fear to look in the eye of people in the audience. They might look up or far away. This is self-defeating as the speaker loses rapport with the audience.
Now part of the problem is caused by feelings of inferiority or loss of confidence. But a larger part of the problem is because the beginning speaker lacks knowledge on what to do on stage to maintain healthy eye contact with audiences.
The basic thing to know is that people expect you to look at them. This shows your confidence, preparedness, openness, as well as your good intention to connect and engage with people sitting in front of you.
The second thing to note is the manner in which eye contact can and does happen. If it is a big audience just send your gaze to the back of the auditorium. Then let it scan towards the front. What you will probably see is a blur of faces. That is how it is.
Once that is done you can give sideways glances. This will make sure that you have the entire audience covered with your eye making contact with them. As you speak whenever you look to any one part of the auditorium you will feel as if your eyes are interlocking with one or a few people. Every time you turn in that direction your eyes will interlock with the same person or group (They may or may not be people known to you.). When this connect happens know that everyone in that part of the crowd feels included in your speech.
On the other hand when you are talking to a small group within a room make sure that you look at each person in the eye. If they are seated in a semi circle with you standing in the middle make sure that the people sitting at both ends of the curve are given due notice occasionally. Otherwise they will feel left out, lose interest in your speech, and maybe in the worst case go to sleep.
Having said that, do not gaze at any one person for too long. For 4 to 5 seconds can feel like an eternity when a speaker is looking at one person alone. Especially those who participate in Group Discussions should ensure that they do not engage in a one to one conversation too long. Instead break eye contact with the one to whom you are responding to and look at the entire group as you continue to speak.
Now coming to the positive side of eye contact; you should smile with your eyes. Let the audience know how delighted you are to be with them. As you exhibit ease and confidence through proper eye contact; you will feel the same reflected back to you in a magnified way from the audience.
As far as reading from manuscript is concerned, proper eye contact is the key to its success. You might have seen American Presidents do that in a thorough professional manner for their inaugural address. The secret is to look at a group of words and deliver them looking at the audience.
A well-prepared document in big point size with wide margins and typed in double space is a must for this. So also many rehearsals will make it look natural; full of energy and enthusiasm, and make it look stunningly confident.
Well, you may not have the expertize of a classical dancer to express a variety of moods with your eyes. But with a little practice you can show delight with a twinkling eye. A stare can communicate anger, hatred, resentment or rebellion. A far away look can signal disinterestedness, dejection, wishfulness or sadness. Yes the eyes can speak volumes without words.
If you ask me what is that people fear the most about public speaking ; I can answer in one word: Mistakes! I can almost see you nod your head in agreement. I have learned that mistakes will comeno matter how talented you are or how best prepared you are. It is just the way we human beings are.
If you ask me again, what is that people fear about public speaking, I can answer again in one word: Criticism! This is tougher still. “What will others think about me?” Well, what can you do about that; absolutely nothing. People might smile at you and say nasty things behind your back. Well, why should you lose your sleep about something that you have no control over at all? Think about it.
Now, what if your mind goes blank? And thus make yourself a fool on stage! So what; my friend? Many great speakers began this way; and there is nothing to be ashamed about that. The brain sometimes makes its presence known by such tricks that it plays. Don’t worry; your mind will back you up with better speeches in the days ahead.
Now what if your speech is boring? Well you don’t become an interesting speaker the Day 1 you speak. It happens over time. The key is to understand people. Ask yourself what their fears, needs, and dreams are? You need to learn to speak not just logic but also with feeling and emotions. Simply be yourself and touch on life and life experiences while you talk.
Above all; create memories. Not just speeches. If one person smiles because of what you said; if one person is inspired to hold on for one more day and not give up saying “I quit” ; if one person comes up to you years later and says that the words you spoke made a lasting impact on his or her life; if one person makes a connect with hope in God through your words; then that is what is the true stuff speeches should be made of.
Let me close with one final word. Some golden rules are never meant to be violated. Keep it short and simple is one such. And when you are in doubt about something you feel like speaking; it is always better to leave it out.
Of course, you can glide in or halt with tires screeching or get people ready to act while you end. And remember, if you attempted to speak; if you gave your very best; then even if you failed—it is triumph!
The first thing you need to be clear about is where and how your plane is going to land. Your audience will not like it if you go around in circles indefinitely and without purpose at the end of your speech.
Imagine you telling them, “That’s all” at the end of your speech. It is like the panic announcement over the loudspeakers after you have fastened your seat belts. As you eagerly await the landing; it is as if the Pilot announced, “I don’t know how to land this plane!”
So make sure where you are heading your plane to.
In case you want people to remember something after you stop speaking, you can try something like: “Let me end by reminding you once again that cleanliness is next to godliness. So if you find bits of paper lying on the floor making the place untidy, make sure you pick them up.”
If you want people to go home thinking about what you just said in your speech, just give them a thought to think about and ask them to think about it: “Now let me end by asking you, ‘Would you like to stay where you are and be like a frog in the well; or would you like to travel the world and have a taste of different cultures, manners, customs, and foods of the people all over the globe? Think about it.”
If you wish people to take immediate action, urge them to do something about it at the earliest. Right now if possible: “My dear friends, the simplest steps to save water and electricity is right at your finger tips. When you step out of your home, just go to every room and check if all lights and fans are switched off. If not, switch it off. Similarly make sure no taps are dripping. Close all taps. It is that simple. Do it now, do it every day.”
If you want to impact people make a thundering landing and crash into the nearby building in fire and smoke: “If not today, know that there is no other day. This is your last match. Go and play like you will never play again. And don’t come back with your tails tucked between your legs. As a coach I have taught you everything I know. But play I cannot. Winning or loosing isn’t everything; but today winning is all that matters. Get me that glittering trophy or go sell peanuts on the streets tonight. I will not accept anything short of victory.”
You can go for a quote at the end if it ties up with the topic of your speech quite strongly. For example, if you are speaking on Father’s Day, what General Mac Arthur said about a Father who builds up rather than tears down is a case in point: “By profession, I am a soldier, and take pride in that fact, but I am prouder, infinitely prouder, to be a father. A soldier destroys in order to build; a father only builds, never destroys. The one has the potentialities of death; the other embodies creation of life; and while the hordes of death are mighty, the battalions of life are mightier still. It is my hope that my son, when I am gone, will remember me, not from the battle, but in the home repeating with him our simple, daily prayer, our Father Who art in Heaven.”
And don’t forget how advertisers find a lodging place for their products in the hearts of millions; through that slogan or sound bite that grips thoughts and emotions. Something like Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream,” something simple and persuasive like Obama’s “Yes, we can.” Apple co-founder Steve Job’s conclusion to his 2005 Stanford Commencement address, “Stay hungry, stay foolish” is a classic example of a sound bite that puts down its roots deep.
Yet another simple method to end is by going for a very short illustration or story. For example: A little girl was seen reading a book in a plane which had hit bad weather. Others around were tensed; some were earnestly praying for a safe landing. A man observed that there was no worry or anxiety on the face of a child seated next to him. So he asked her, “Little girl, are you not afraid.” She replied, “Sir, my Dad is the pilot, and he is taking me home.” Our trust in God our Heavenly Father should be like how this little girl trusted her Dad to pilot her home!
Finally, let me ask you not to make the mistake that millions of speakers make all the time. They start working on the introduction first. Then they work on the body of their speech. By the time all this is ready; they don’t have time to prepare the concluding lines. So they decide to land their plane as lucky as it gets. So far in the history of flying planes and public speaking no one has landed safely without planning a safe landing to perfection.
Hope from now on you will have the end in mind when you begin!
Red says STOP. When the light is red, do not act; do not move, do not proceed. You can escape so many tears and heartbreaks in life; if you simply learn to see Red.
There are many who will offer you your tomorrow today. And you might feel the irresistible pull to go along.
But wait a minute. Did you forget to see the colour Red? Did you forget that one simple yet power-packed word you can and should say? NO! “No” is the bold word you should say when you see red!
Remember that the best things in life are worth waiting for. Don’t seek instant pleasure and satisfaction in anything. Secret things can thrill; but they also kill. It is one moment’s thoughtless adventure but a lifelong journey down to the depths of hell.
So learn to see red. And when you see red, say NO.
Know that consequences are there for every stand you take and every move you make. But you have got everything to lose if you dance to the tune others play for you.
So stand strong. And be bold. A fierce lion-like stance once you say NO might be your only hope.
As a young girl, there is nothing you need to learn that is more important than the word NO. Always, keep it ready like an arrow pulled back on the string. Shoot it without a second thought.
It will hurt some; but it is worth the risk. For it is your safety that matters most. A glass jar; if it breaks might not just be the same even if you glue it back again. So be bold enough to say NO.
Let me conclude. Life is beautiful; but there is red everywhere. Trust in God; be bold, and say NO when you see red.
Life is God’s gift to you. Do not nip it in the bud.
Life might not have been fair to you. But that is not reason enough to take your own life.
You might have made mistakes. Yet when you choose to live, you get a chance to redeem those mistakes made. But if you choose to end your life that is the biggest mistake you can make. You cannot undo it.
Do you say no one cares for you? God will not forsake you even if your father and mother forsakes you.
Even if a mother forgets the baby at her breast and has no compassion on the child she has borne, God says, “I will not forget you!”
He has loved you with an everlasting love. His unfailing love for you will not be shaken for he has compassion on you.*
My dear friend, thoughts of suicide can attack you at any time; sometimes without any reason at all. What should you do then?
Let me ask you what you would do if an ugly worm falls on you when you are standing under a tree? You will shake it away in disgust; won’t you? Yes that is what you should do with all negative thoughts; always! Brush them away. Do not entertain them. Do not lovingly spread a bed for them. Instead, kick them out!
If you have a friend share your struggle with him or her. Accept his or her love and care. Never deceive yourself by thinking that no one cares. It’s a lie!
My dear friend, you can come back from life’s defeats, loss of confidence and failures. Just hold on. The Bible says, “Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”
Remember my friend, God loves you even if you don’t feel like it. Even when your problems seem so huge and unsolvable, he has a plan and purpose* for your life.
Sometimes you might have faced abuse, mental torture, and been the subject of jokes. You might be going through shame and guilt and feelings of worthlessness. Yes, I admit some memories are hard to erase.
Yet you can have a brand new beginning* in life! Choose Life. My friend, that doesn’t mean life is going to be easy, but life will certainly be meaningful when you look forward with hope as God walks along with you!
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” — Jesus Christ (John 10:10, 11; 14:6 Bible NIV).
*Bible references: God’s child (John 1:12, 1 John 3:1), Father and mother forsake (Psalm 27:10), Mother forgetting (Isaiah 49:15), Loved with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3) Unfailing love and compassion (Isaiah 54:10), Apple of God’s eye (Deuteronomy 32:10), weeping and rejoicing (Psalm 30:5b), Plan and purpose (Jeremiah 29:11), brand new beginning (2 Cor. 5:17).
At the sound of this one word, some hearts flutter, some others skip a beat. There is rush of adrenaline for some; others blush.
Love, surprisingly, has been equated with emotions. But is it all that is there to it? Emotions keep changing; don’t they? Today, you feel madly in love with someone; when the sun rises the next day you wonder where all the “love” you felt yesterday has gone; don’t you?
So love does not properly belong to the realm of emotions; though emotions do colour our love with all kinds of splashes. Then what is love?
It is basically a decision to hold the other person in the highest esteem, value him or her above all else, and cherish that person like no other and hold him or her so close and dear to one’s heart.
Love is not about getting; it is about giving.
Love is not about selfishness; it is about sacrifice.
Love is not about being on top of the charts; it is about humility, the willingness to serve.
Love is not about bragging; it is about doing things for the other without advertising.
Love is not about covering up evil; it is about being transparent and living in the light.
Love is not about falsehood; it is about speaking the truth.
Finally, we cannot think on love without thinking of God. The well known passage in the Bible speaks about love in this compelling way: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”*
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
Speaking is a matter of joy. So keep aside your fears. Seek God’s help, read much on your topic, get guidance from parents and teachers, and you are ready to go.
First of all think about a good beginning. It should get the attention of the audience. It can be a quote, a very short story or even an experience from your life said quickly.
Something like,
“When I was a child, my father used to take us to the children’s library in my hometown. Soon, primarily through the world of comics I entered into the world of fairy tales, fables, heroes, heroines, villains, and imaginative stories. Little did I know that I was going to fall in love with reading. But one thing I know, it has added depth to my understanding of the meaning of life, people, cultures, and the world at large.”
Now you can tell them the topic of the day. If you can use some creative ways to phrase your topic, it will be great. For example, “Is the Habit of Reading a Lost Art? Even plainly stating the topic, “The Importance of Reading,” is fine.
Follow it up with a quick statement of what all things your audience can expect from your speech. For example if you are speaking on The Importance of Reading, you can say something like, “Today I will be helping you to understand how reading informs, entertains, and inspires you.”
Now the audience knows that your speech will cover three main points. The expectation is clearly established. And they know what they will get to carry home with them from your speech.
Next try to find logical ideas and examples to support each main point you are dealing with.
For example, you can say that the reading of a book on Questions and Answers had given you basic knowledge about the human body, deep sea fishes, artificial intelligence, inventions and discoveries, computers etc; the reading of C. S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia had entertained you, and the reading of Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam‘s autobiography The Wings of Fire had inspired you.
Now you can tell your audience about how to make reading a habit. If you have a habit of reading the Bible the first thing in the morning, you can tell them it is a good way to begin the day by seeking God and his wisdom.*
You can then tell them how to bring variety in your reading by mixing story books, travelogues, science fiction, comics, poetry, drama, novels and so on.
Perhaps, you can also tell them how to write notes about what they read so that they will be able to recall and put to good use what they have read.
Now it is time to conclude. Before you do so you can try to cement the importance of reading by using a well known quote from Bacon, “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested,” or from Milton, “A good book is the precious life-blood of a master spirit, embalmed and treasured up on purpose to a life beyond life.”
After saying that, you can tell them what you told them till then. Something like “the headlines once again” as you hear in the reading of the NEWS on television. “Today, I have tried to show you how reading informs, entertains, and inspires you.”
Now you can try a flow chart to touch down.
If you want to remind them of the importance of reading say something like, “I hope that the habit of reading will grow along with you like an ever-widening and deepening stream.”
Or if you want to persuade them to take action, end by asking, “The libraries of the world have many books. You can’t read all of them . But still there are some you cannot afford to miss. So start reading today.”
Yet again you want an inspirational ending, go for this: “If my short speech has ignited your imagination and inspired you to open the windows of your mind a little wider through reading, I am sure you will build a life on solid rock, chiselled by discipline, and trusted for its character.
If you have got one true friend, you are rich.
If you have got two, you are a billionaire.
If you say, you have more; you know nothing about friendship.
Well, you may not agree. But good friends are rare.
Friends are, I believe, God’s priceless gifts to us.
Valuing, cherishing, nurturing, and maintaining friendship is the way we say “thank you” for what has been gifted to us.
Friendship primarily is a relationship. It is based on love, acceptance, and mutual respect.
That means you love not to get something out of your friend, but to give the best you have.
That means you accept your friend with all his goodness and shortcomings as well.
Beyond all this it is a relationship that seeks to honour your friend and never take him for granted.
Friendship again is an investment. It takes time to build good friendships.
You need to invest quality time with your friend on a regular basis. Social media can help; but is never a substitute for face to face interaction.
Time that you get in your school and college days will never come back.
So utilize that to the maximum to build a solid foundation so that after graduation when you move out for work, you still have a huge deposit of memories, of conversations, and of good things you did together with your friend.
Friendship can also be a reflection.
A good friend is a mirror that reflects who you truly are.
It does not hide what is ugly, what is marred, and what is lacking in you.
It speaks truth.
In the words of King Solomon, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted; but an enemy multiplies kisses.”*
Friendship, again, is a bridge-building exercise.
Not always will you find your friend at his best.
Not always will you find him meeting your demands on his time, talent, or resources.
There will be times when he misunderstands you.
But one thing I have learned to do in those tough times is to think of the best things he has been to me.
It is in those challenging times that I deliberately focus on the kindnesses he has shown me in the past.
And then my heart warms up again.
Within no time I take the initiative to make a call and talk.
And it is good old times back again.
Life is too short. If God has given you good friends, thank God for them.
Value them, cherish them, be loyal to them, and above all, remember them in your daily prayers.
If you are yet to create good friendships, choose them carefully. Charm can be deceptive; beauty fleeting; handsomeness can turn ugly when you get close; and smiling faces can be masks whose paint washes off in the first rain.
So be warned; choose your friends carefully.
For a friend can build you up strong like a stone fortress or give you a massive pull down a black hole.
Finally, let me conclude by saying that a good friend brings out the best in you.
He does not yield to your stories of defeat and despair.
Instead he motivates you to be the best God wanted you to be.
So thank God for your friend who holds you true to your God-given purpose in life. Thank you.
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
*Proverbs 27:6
Quotes on friendship
“My father always used to say that when you die, if you’ve got five real friends, then you’ve had a great life.” — Lee Iacocca (Former Chairman, Chrysler Corporation and Former President, Ford Motor Company.).
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” — King Solomon (Proverbs 27:17).
“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” — Jesus Christ (John 15:13).
In the love poems by King Solomon known as Song of Solomon or Song of Songs, he speaks about a Lover and his Beloved.
While they converse with each other, with growing love and anticipation of their wedding, the beloved says, “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom (SOS 2:15).”
Written over 3000 years ago, the little foxes are more real today than ever. What greater threat can you find eroding marriages than social media and networking like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, etc.?
First of all, the time people spent on it everyday is enormous. It need not happen in big chunks. But the anxiety to just have a look at latest posts and see what is happening with others steals away time–valuable time–in short bouts. Time that should be spend on nurturing relationships within the family and taking care of the well-being of its members is wasted away like this.
Secondly, the ease of use of these kind of media make people cross boundaries easily without any feeling of guilt. Today, morality is becoming more and more relative than following absolute God-commanded standards. The saddest part is that people fail to realize boundaries are drawn to keep you safe from harm. Social media gives many the thrill of intimacy without responsibility; and secret enjoyment of forbidden fruit without much fear of being caught.
Finally, social media makes people lose perspective. The virtual world can never substitute the real. But for those who indulge in it, life seems rosier; and the grass looks greener on the other side. This makes people devalue their own husbands and wives as they suddenly find fault with them by the hundreds. Love is suddenly absent. Unfavourable comparisons are the little foxes here. Sadly those who are lured by the charming chats forget that virtual relationships and flirting are no less sinful than real; and will sap their life and drain their vitality away from them.
So what’s the big deal here? Nothing if life is just fun alone. But life is not without accountability. When it comes to that, what if all your chats are made a public spectacle to the entire humanity? Like digital footprints you leave behind everywhere you browse; all your moral looseness is also leaving its unerasable prints that are irreversibly recorded. When that day of accountability and judgement comes you will remember the folly of not having caught the little foxes that had ruined your vineyards!
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
“It is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgement” — Hebrews 9:27 Bible.
” ‘Stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is delicious!’ But little do they know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of the grave.” — Proverbs 9;17, 18 Bible.
What helps you succeed? So many elements that contribute to success might have crossed your mind in the twinkling of an eye; haven’t they? Let me just pick one among them all. It happens to be one of my favourites. It is the ability to aim high.
But we find many people content to fly low in life. They sadly miss the chance to live life to the fullest. Therefore the question is, what prevents people from aiming high? Let me just quickly sketch a few points.
First of all, people do not aim high because they are afraid of their own success.
It might be a startling statement. But it is true. I have met many who thought that to succeed is a crime. To them, success meant that they are somehow stealing someone else’s opportunity.
But that is not true. This world is a big place and God has created a space for you and for me. It is only when you do not use your full potential and do not try to understand the purpose for which you have been created; it is then that you betray your calling in life.
So aim high and be the best you can be.
Secondly, people do not aim high because they are afraid to fail.
See, the problem lies in how you look at failure. If you see it as the worst that can happen; then you are finished. You lose even before you start to fight. That is a defeatist attitude and most negative.
Dear friend, stop worrying about what others will think when you fail. That is their problem; not yours. Unless you try, how can you exercise your God-gifted potential? If you look at yourself honestly; you are carrying a gold mine within you and living like a beggar. Who is to blame? I hope you got the answer.
So aim high and be the best you can be.
Finally, people do not aim high because they think that they are not significant.
Oh, how it disheartens me to see so many choose to stay behind the curtains and on the side benches without taking an active part in the drama and game of life! Dear friend, never fall into the comparison trap. The world will always try to make you feel inferior. Do not buy into that lie even for a moment.
For God has created you unique. There is nobody on planet Earth like you. With all your shortcomings you can still contribute much to the lives of others. Stop thinking about yourself alone. You can be the lifeline to many others who are in despair and in darkness.
So aim high and be the best you can be.
Let me conclude. Never fly low. I repeat it again; never fly low.
Like the law of gravity; negatives will always be around you trying to pull you down. But there is a higher law of flight and freedom that leads to joyous achievement.
I cannot but quote those famous words from Prophet Isaiah who said:
This is your true destiny. To rise from your bed of despair and hopelessness and aim high. Look at the vast blue expanse of the skies. Isn’t there a stirring in your heart; a longing to soar high?
I was watching a fancy dress program at my kids’ school a few days ago. A five -year old dressed as an old lady was hobbling along the stage with the aid of a stick. She looked very realistic.
Suddenly she saw someone at the far end of the stage holding out a chocolate to her. At that moment, totally forgetting the situation, she rushed to grab the chocolate! Watching the rest of the participants perform, I have no doubt that she would have easily been voted the best of the participants otherwise.
What made her do so? Temptation.
Temptation. It often comes right at the path of your duty. One way to escape it is to be prepared. Do not let temptations take you by surprise.
Temptation. The moment you allow curiosity to take the first bite; you are finished. The moment you think it is safe to step inside a lion’s cage to take a selfie; even your bones will not be recovered.
Temptation. The longer it knocks at your door, the more bold you should be that you can overcome it. It is because you are still safely locked in. However great and furious the knock or pleading just say NO.
Temptation. It has great power when it comes through your friends. The possibility that they might reject you or make fun of you can unnerve you. It is good to be called names rather than to slip into a lifetime of misery and regret.
Temptation. It often defeats you when you stay a moment longer at spots you are not supposed to be. Run away. And do not look back for that second glance. Guard your eyes. Let it not look at evil and have your hearts hooked by what you see.
Temptation. It can come in many subtle and glamorous forms.
Temptation that is not attractive;
that doesn’t have a tinge of pleasure in it;
that does not give you a momentary satisfaction cannot be called temptation.
The danger about temptation is that it makes you think only of instant gratification and not about long-term and far reaching consequences, guilt, shame, remorse, ridicule and the burden of sin that you need to face or carry.
Ultimately the only absolute defence against temptation that I know is God. Call out to him for help. A sincere heart prayer and cry from a broken and contrite heart is always heard and answered.
To be beautiful and lovely, to be handsome and attractive, to be admired and appreciated; these are the longing of every human heart.
Some spend a fortune on cosmetics and apparels, on handbags and shoes, jewellery and ornaments to achieve these goals.
But there are better methods to make yourself an attractive person.
It is when we are dissatisfied that we become jealous of others. And when we become jealous all our joy turns into bitter poison that corrupts the heart and darkens our facial features as well.
Therefore stop comparing yourself with others and feeling inferior. Instead be thankful to God for all that you are and all that you have.
Nothing compares with the beauty of a baby smiling. And we all had smiled as children. Now when did we lose that? We lost it by worrying often. Stop worrying. It accomplishes nothing. Worry increases the wrinkles and frowns on your face.
So don’t lose your attractiveness through constant worry. Try smiling more often.
That is needed, but more than that why not try to be an encourager.
Make a deliberate effort to speak an encouraging word to someone today. Appreciate others a lot. Try to do a kind deed even as simple as smiling at the person who filled petrol in your car today. Or, saying “Thank you” to the one who took orders at your table in the restaurant.
Remember one good word that lights up hope from you can be the pull that brings back a person to life from the pit of destruction he or she was about to fall into.
Let me conclude.
A thankful heart,
a smile on your face,
and an encouraging word for others
are three secrets of a lovely, attractive, beautiful, and a handsome, winsome personality. And look stunningly beautiful too.
When was the last time you asked an intelligent question? Why is that the frequency of your questions decreased as you grew from a child to an adult? What prevents you from asking questions now? Is it stage fright? These are important questions.
But more importantly, you need to relearn the art of asking questions. Why is this important? This is important because asking questions enable you to think with clarity. It helps you to communicate to the other person that you are serious about the matter under discussion. Questions help us to gather vital information, show genuine interest, clarify doubts, etc.
“It has been said that the whole art of gaining and of communicating knowledge consists in asking the right questions. It could be said that the way to certainty is to have the right kind of doubt.”1
A child is able to ask many questions because the child has a sense of wonder. Most questions begin with “Why?” in childhood. So to ask good questions, you need to be curious.
In a business setting, a few questions can really get you a lot of information. Having the right kind of information is an absolute must in decision-making; isn’t it?
Basically, there are two types of questions? One is the closed question. The other is the open-ended question. Closed question requires only a short response. Did you watch the movie yesterday? This just requires a Yes or No response.
On the other hand an open-ended question encourages the listener to talk more. Questions like, “Why do you think there are less women CEO’s in the industry? Is it because they hit the glass ceiling?” can make people talk and air their opinions.
If you ask questions aggressively, it can make people nervous and put them on the defensive. Many people are afraid to face questions because they have terror-filled experiences about it from School. So you need to be gentle when you ask questions. And show proper respect wherever and to whosoever it is due.
At the same time, asking wrong questions can show your lack of intelligence. It can reveal your ignorance and also make people question your credibility as well. Therefore do a lot of homework before you ask questions.
Finally, if you know how to ask questions, you can trap those who wanted to trap you. Here is a classic example:
Some people wanted to trap Jesus Christ. They came to him saying, “We know you are a man of integrity . . . Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesear or not?” But Jesus knew their evil intent and asked them why they were trying to trap him. He asked them, “Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” When they brought the coin (a denarius) to him, Jesus asked, “Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?” “Casear’s,” they replied. Then Jesus said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”2
This type of asking questions to turn the tables is an art. You too can be good at it if you try. Remember, sometimes the difference between failure and success in life is simply your ability to ask the right questions!
No one can hold audiences spell bound without giving due attention to how he uses his body to communicate. It is proved beyond doubt that the way one uses one’s body to communicate can enhance the appeal of any message.
A raised arm, a sweeping movement, a bow, a playful raise of the eyebrows, a shrug of the shoulder, a pointed finger, a swift cut through the air, a bending forward while asking a question and then pause; all these are examples of powerful use of the body to emphasize, underline, and highlight what you say.
Your Eyes
The power of a look has to be experienced to be believed. Your eyes can express a variety of emotions like love, anger, joy, playfulness and so on. More importantly it is your first connect with audiences. So use your eyes to maintain eye contact with the audience.
If it is a small group you can look at each individual once in a while. If it is a larger gathering, you will feel comfortable looking at one or two individuals in each segment of the large gathering whenever you turn in that direction.
Your Smile
This is your second connect with audiences. A smile can not only open the ears of people but also their hearts as well. It makes it easy for the audience to identify with you and also open up a dialogue with you. Sometimes you can get tensed during your presentation that you forget to smile. So remind yourself once in a while to smile.
Your Posture
I have seen many people lean on the lectern. This is not good. An erect posture not only communicates a sense of leadership and purpose; it also helps you to breathe normally. That helps in your voice production as well. And most people make the mistake of keeping their two feet together while they speak. This makes them look like a robot. Such a stance gives little room for spontaneous movement. Creativity is stifled.
Your Arms
Some people would like to hold on to the microphone or the lectern. It gives them a sense of security. Nothing wrong about it. At the same time one should know how not to deal with the arms on stage.
Crossed arms will distance you from the audience quite easily. Arms flying around will distract. Palms up are very weak. Any move of the hand to face is a signal to the audience that you are not at your confident best. So be bold in stretching out your arm and use gestures that will support, highlight, illustrate and make plain your content.
Your Movement
Formal occasions might not give you a chance to move around. But many speech situations will give you the possibility of moving on stage. Do not stay behind the lectern always. Why not step out to make a point and move back? If there is no lectern and you are holding a mike in your hand, gracefully walk into the midst of your audience to ask a question or to interact with them. Such moves are welcomed by the audience and will help them to connect with you in a deeper way.
A Speech Is Not Just About Words
A speech is not just about words. Though content is important; you the speaker through whom the message is delivered is also equally important. So make sure that you are able to impact the audience through the way you use your body to communicate!
You can compere to your heart’s content and your audience’s delight as you follow these 7 steps:
#1. Believe You Can!
Think of the opportunity to compere as joy. Never believe the lie that you can’t do it. Of course, there will always be people who might be able to do better than you; but you still can leave a mark. The confidence that you can definitely do it is going to make a huge impact in your performance on stage as far as compering is concerned. So believe the best about yourself and step confidently on stage.
#2. Write a Compere-Script
As no one will attempt to construct a building without having a plan or blue print with them; no one should attempt to do compering without preparing a script. Whether you read from the script or not is a question of lesser importance. Write down everything. The actual introduction, the lines inviting the speakers, the thank you notes in between, and so on you plan to use during compering. Leave nothing to chance. Also remember to leave blank spaces in between as well as in the margins to jot down last minute changes in the programme. A person who attempts to do compering without a script is yet again like a soldier going to war without weapons!
#3. Be Enthusiastic
The joy of fielding was once made known to the world by a former cricket player from South Africa, Jonty Rhodes. He made what was a routine part of the game into a highly developed art. Similarly, you can raise the level of compering to great heights by your great enthusiasm as Jonty Rhodes did with fielding. The way you walk on stage, your gestures, your voice; and in short everything you do should pulsate with enthusiasm. Then the crowd will surely catch the fire of your enthusiasm when you compere.
#4. Maintain Good Eye Contact
The eyes can communicate a whole range of emotions and can reflect the inner state of a person quite sharply too. So use your eyes to communicate an exuberant mood while compering. Let your eyes scan the entire audience. Do not get stuck up looking at the imagined balcony or looking at blank walls. Instead make everybody feel included with your eyes with a wide sweep across the audience.
#5. Vary Your Voice
Some people tell. Others shout. Some others are full of big-sounding words. Some others whisper on stage. The point is not whether one method is correct or not; the point is that there should be a rich variety in your voice. When inviting the chief guest to inaugurate the Seminar your voice should communicate that seriousness; while announcing a popular rocking song or dance in a Reality Show your voice should communicate excitement and the upbeat mood to create anticipation. Whatever be the situation, clarity of words is a must.
#6. Make Them Feel Good
A compere’s role is not to highlight how intelligent, knowledgeable or a wizard of words he or she is. Anyone who sets out to do so is inviting the wrath of the audience. The compere is someone who draws least attention to himself or herself . Instead his or her role is to turn the spotlight on someone else all the time. Your words, gestures, and other actions on stage should all help in magnifying the person or group you are talking about. It is then that the audience learns to better appreciate those people or the action that is happening on stage.
#7. Smile All the Way
It is not your fabulous dress or make-up or ornaments that is going to win the day for you. Neither are the words that you use going to help much; though words are needed. The greatest asset for a compere is his or her smile. These days people are fed up with cosmetic smiles that are artificial. Be genuine with the crowds. Then the smile from your heart will light up all the world with hope while you compere!
Words serve as signposts while compering. They are to be used sparingly. As King Solomon wrote: “The more the words, the less the meaning, and how does that profit anyone?”1 If words are used sparingly, many mistakes can be avoided by the compere.
A simple, direct, dignified style with words that come from the heart yet stimulating thought would carry the day. A compere sets the tone, facilitates smooth transitions, takes on leadership roles when situation demands and signs off with elan.
But often those who compere make several mistakes. Some of the more serious ones I have tried to point out in this blog post:
Example Mistake #1
Once at college, a friend of mine at the end of a debate competition announced that our Professor would share his valuable ideas on the topic. It was a tense moment. For my friend had not informed our Professor that he would be asked to speak. And the auditorium was packed to full capacity. Anyway, he spoke as he is a great speaker. But later he called my friend and advised him quite strongly never to
do this to another person.
Insight: Never surprise eminent people with off hand announcements that they’ll speak on the topic, that too in front of a packed audience.
Example Mistake #2
At an Inter-University Debate competition a young college student was made the compere of the programme. She might not have had much previous experience. When it was time for the Chief Guest, who was the Vice Chancellor of a University, to be invited to speak, she did so while she sat down at the rear of the stage. It was shocking to say the least.
Insight: Common sense and basic courtesy should not be forgotten while compering.
Example Mistake #3
I once learned a valuable lesson unexpectedly. I met a person known to me. So we talked for some time. Then he asked who the other person with me was. I introduced him saying he is a painter because that is what I thought he did. At that time he said nothing. But later he told me that he is not a painter but an artist who also paints for a living. I then understood that his esteem suffered a blow when I said he is a painter. Therefore we should seek to understand how people like to be introduced. Here many who compere fail.
Insight: When introducing people, always ask how they want to be represented before the crowd. Ask for a brief profile so that you can read it out and introduce them to the audience they way they want it to be done.
Example Mistake #4
“Our Chief Guest of the day is so and so. He’ll be speaking on the topic xyz. We can expect some great insights from him today. But before I invite him to speak let me share some of my ideas about this topic.” This kind of compere is an insult to the Chief Guest. If this person could do the job, why call a Chief Guest and then destroy anticipation, and interest in the topic he has prepared by giving a mediocre presentation just before the keynote address?
Insight: Do not overstep your functional role. You are asked to invite the speaker to share his thoughts; and not to speak on his/her topic.
Example Mistake #5
Much damage is done when those who compere misuse their freedom with the person being introduced. The compere might crack jokes from their shared past by saying that while studying together at college the Chief Guest was called, “. . . .” That might be true, but a public function is not the occasion to share it. Such remarks definitely destroys the serious mood of the audience and will make them view the speaker in a light-hearted manner. That is disastrous as far as the speaker is concerned.
Insight: A compere should be able to understand what is the apt remark for the occasion. Generally frivolous statements should be avoided. Remember what King Solomon said: “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”2
Example Mistake #6
It is not good to indulge in what many have termed “verbal gymnastics” while compering. Recently I heard a compere, who, instead of simply inviting the choir for the welcome song, went on to present a thesis on the importance of music. What he said was mostly irrelevant even as many bombastic words were stringed together without ryhme or reason in his short speech. It was totally inapropriate and uncalled for. He should have simply said, “May I invite the choir for the welcome song.”
Insight: When a simple direct statement is apt and appropriate, do not spoil the moment by making a garland of words with all kinds of wild flowers tied together without sense or sensibility.
Example Mistake #7
Gestures with the hand can spell trouble if not used with caution. Many who compere spread out their hands in wild sweeping motions to their sides and towards the person who is being introduced or invited. Except perhaps in informal settings, this has to be avoided as it destroys the ceremonial propriety that has to be observed. Casual, lazy gestures that spell over-familiarity with the speaker has to be avoided at all costs.
Insight: Always strive to make the audience respect the speaker and hold him/her in high regard even with the way you gesture especially with your hands.
“For the attention of passengers, Train No. 12696, from Thiruvananthapuram to Chennai Central will leave shortly from platform No. 3 at 17 hours 25 minutes.” As this was ringing in my ears, little did I know that I was about to witness a memorable incident right there on the platform.
This incident occurred a few years ago at the platform of Thiruvananthapuram railway station (in Kerala, India). I had gone to see my parents off. After they had been seated inside the compartment, I waited outside on the platform by the window of the train. It was almost time for the train to move.
Then I saw a man rush out of the door nearby. He stooped down on his knees on the platform and was frantically trying to get something from underneath the train. Since it was time for the train to move I became curious and went near him to see what it was.
He was trying to get one sandal that his little daughter had thrown out through the window. Unable to get it, he ran to a small shop on the platform, borrowed a stick from them and tried hard to lift the sandal.
By that time the signal had turned from red to orange and the blast of the horn was heard. I went near that man who was down on his knees and bending way down towards the railway track in that narrow space between the train and the platform.
I tapped him on the shoulder and said, “The train is about to move. The signal is going to turn green. Be careful. Leave the sandal!” But he was in no mood to listen (whether the sandal cost a fortune or whether it had some nostalgic value; I don’t know). Yet just in the nick of time, before the train started moving he lifted the sandal, and with a proud smile on his face boarded the moving train.
For a moment, caught up by the drama of the man in action, I had forgotten that I did not say goodbye to my parents. As I realized it with a jolt, I saw my parents come to near the door to look out to see what had happened to me. I waved to them to say everything was O.K.
It was then that I saw that wonderful sight. As the man was moving towards his seat with the reclaimed sandal proudly lifted up in his hand, and as soon as he reached his family; the little girl threw out the other sandal she had with her from the moving train!
I wondered how silly people act at times. The man, in the first place, should have responsibly valued his life (especially in relation to his wife and kids) and refrained from trying to lift the sandal as the train was about to move.
Secondly, he could have listened when I told him to leave the sandal alone. Finally, he could have stepped into the shoes of the little girl who might have thought, “If one sandal is gone, let the other also be left behind!” Then I thought again. How many times we too like that man have acted foolishly in life even after seeing warning signals? Often it’s by God’s grace alone we live to get a second chance.
