@Aprinsa, I certainly appreciate your feedback as I do with ALL feedback. An opportunity for my continued growth and learning. I'm glad you realized that is was indeed a semi final speech as I put that at the beginning of the video and in title description. Veronique's advice to me was indeed about not letting others control and overwhelm us and the way she triumphed over the horrible thing that happened to her (allowing her to move on with the precious second chance at life), was indeed to "put things in perspective". When we don't put things in perspective, we walk around the earth being re-victimized by the challenging things that happen to us in life. My goal wasn't to control the audience but rather to share an important message (I'm by no means perfect as a speaker) and encourage us all to remember how important it is to put things in perspective. Putting things in perspective doesn't immediately solve your problems I absolutely agree, but it can indeed change your life fundamentally as it makes you more mindful of how you react to things that happen to you. Which ultimately influences how you experience life. Thanks again for sharing. Wishing you the best with your public speaking project.
Wonderful speech! I myself am a member of a Toastmasters club in India. I have checked out a few TM speeches uploaded on TH-cam and have realized that we need to "see" or "watch" a good speech as much as "listen" to it. The best speakers speak as much or perhaps more with their body as they do with words. Your speech was a terrific example. Many thanks for sharing.
Great speech from a wonderful speaker! I often think about how important it is to keep things in perspective when I complain about life. Thanks, Sylvia.
I enjoyed this speech, as a new toastmaster member I look forward to hearing and giving speeches that are inspirational and motivational and this one was both, thanks for sharing - God bless
I have watched this on behalf of my uncle, whom you know as Chris Banzet, and I must say, as a child who was picked on and teased, the quote used by Franswa's mother "Never let someone who gives you no value to your life, control so much of it". I believe that this will help me next time a boy in my class begins to give me problems I will, as my uncle says, "smile and say 'validation'" its as simple as not letting him under my skin. I enjoy your stage presents and animation in your voice. I hope someday to be as good at public speaking as you.
+Angel Rieker Thank you kindly for your words of Praise and for letting me know Chris Banzet is your uncle. Great guy :-) I'm very glad to hear that you will be able to take those words to heart and be encouraged and empowered by them the next time someone in class gives you problems. Keep jumping at every opportunity you have now and in the future to practice a little speaking and you'll be well on your way to becoming a superstar for sure. My very best wishes to you Angel :-)
Great talk. I believe all of us are students of our past and what matters is how we translate that past into memories that shape our present reality. The lesson is clear: stop complaining and start appreciating God for where you are.
+Raphaels Manasseh You're absolutely right. Thanks for your insight. A great reminder for us all, especially when we're faced with challenges to overcome.
+Raphaels Manasseh Well put Bro. Yes And we humans need to assure that The God is the Center of our actions in the light of His Holy Word. With Lord's blessings & wisdom we can overcome the worst hurdle we may face. All Glory due His mighty name. Shalom!
Great Job, Sylvia! Your hard work created a memorable message. Put it in perspective is a great reminder to us all that our problems truly pale in comparison to those of others.
Loved your body expression and the impersonation of your friend! Thanks for the reminder to put things in perspective - just what I need now when I quit a job because a heartless manager! :)
+Collective CASA Thank you kindly for watching. You're right that it's often about us just being reminded to put things in perspective. I wish you the best with your work situation.
Thank you for conveying Veronique's beautiful wisdom to the world. Never letting someone who contributed nothing to your life control so much of it. I wish you could have focused more on that message. Especially when there's so much violence in the world right now that people cannot escape from, exactly her experience, and mine. Just the mere right to live free from torment is more than a lot of us get. Maybe the material for a future speech?
@Sveva Iceni Thanks very much for watching and sharing your feedback. Veronique's wisdom stands the test of time for sure. I'm sorry to hear that you've had to endure the torment of violence as well. You're absolutely right about the level of violence in our world today that has become inescapable for so many innocent people. I would have loved to have focused more on Veronique's message for sure, but it was important to create the build up showing the atrocities she endured, to really appreciate her words of wisdom in the end. That's the unfortunate challenge of having to stay within 5-7 minute restriction with this kind of speech. Perhaps I will indeed consider elaborating further on her strand of wisdom in another speech. Many thanks again for stopping by and sharing your valuable insight. My best wishes to you. Sylvia
Sylvia Baffour Thank you. I just received my New Member Kit from Toastmasters. I can't wait to begin my journey to ultimately become a World Champion Public Speaker.
@Black Crow, congratulations on taking your first step. Work hard as you grow in your speaking ability and focus most intently on delivering moving messages that matter and that will take you a long way on this journey for sure :-)
+craigslist273648289198349732 345678 Thank you very much for watching. I am currently doing presentations full time as well as some coaching. My very best wishes to you :-)
Hi Sylvia, have become a TM and was browsing through speeches and yours showed up !!! Good one and well done . Hope you are working on getting back in there and winning the title (if at first you don't succeed ...........!) especially after what happened in 2015 with the top 3 being non American the playing field is open. Go for it . Will get in touch God bless. Uncle Eddie :-)
+Edmund Bannerman Hi Uncle Eddie, lovely to hear from you and thanks for stumbling upon my speech and for your words of encouragement. I'm not sure if I will compete again. Making it to second place in my semi was quite satisfying. I have my attention and focus on some different things but I will inbox you so we can chat more about that. I look forward to catching up with you very soon. Do you use Viber or Whatsapp? If so, would you mind sending me your number via a private message here or my sylviaspeaks email and we can chat there soon. Love, Sylvia
WOW! Me encanto tu discurso. No solamente la manera de darlo sino el mensaje: “Ponerlo en perspectiva”; “no dejes que nadie que no aporta nada a tu vida, tome las riendas de ella”. Sylvia muchas gracias por recordarme lo que deveras es importante en la vida, además de que eres una excelente oradora y deseo aprender de ti para mejorar mi carrera en Toastmasters. Felicidades!!
+Desti Nadea haha I'm not sure about the 'being smart in English part' :-) I'm from Ghana. I'm not exactly sure how I can help you remotely but I would be happy to recommend some ideas for you. Feel free to send an email to info@sylviaspeaks.com and we can keep in touch that way. Best regards
Sylvia your speech is moving, inspiring, absolutely awesome!! Your execution, delivery and landing of your message was a delightful display to watch. I've only competed in Toastmaster International speech once. However, I was blessed to make it to District. It is my plan to compete again soon. You know, as I read through (some of) the comments, it is always interesting to read of those who write an entire dissertation of critiques about how someone's speech could have been more of this or that. But isn't that always the way of the critic. Respectfully, most don't have the courage or the goods to build the art. They only have voices of critique about how the art could be better, offering no positive feed forward or words of worth for how to add onto making someone's frame better (LOL). Besides, we all already know that improving upon something (anything) is an ongoing, never ending road. It's like technology... like computer software that we constantly have to update because of improved advancements. For sure speeches are the same, and can always be improved upon. But so what! Just know that you both inspire and have done what few will ever experience. So bravo to you Sylvia. Anyway, just wanted to share with you, no matter the outcome, I thought you hit your speech out of the park my dear. I am immensely inspired by your story and the always comely advice of "Keep it in perspective" you shared:) Truly, a joy to watch a real pro in action. Thanks for the view. Blessings :)
Thank you kindly Charisse for taking time to write so thoughtfully and share your encouraging insights. I love the idea of "Feed forward". You're so right about everything being a growth process. My goal is continue to be a better speaker with every opportunity. While we all know that there is no road to perfection, we commit to doing what we can to be better today than we were yesterday. Thank you again for your kind words and support. I'm sorry it took me 6 months to reply. I'm not sure how I missed your comment. Wishing you the very best. Sylvia
Sylvia, that was INCREDIBLE! For those who were attempting to argue a finer point about whether the topic moved them or not, one would have to ask, if they are capable of movement? One thing I would like to add to your GREAT words in this public speaking engagement is that most hang onto the past because they cannot genuinely understand the values of forgiveness. I hear many people say they cannot let that person be forgiven for what they've done. Then I ask, BUT, can "you" be forgiven for letting it happen again tomorrow? They always look at me with very confused and defensive eyes.. And I go on to say, this person may have done the initial transgression, but it is "YOU" who now continues to re-do it to yourself again and again, by putting it in a wheelbarrow and carrying all that weight into tomorrow. Letting oneself forgive, can be a "selfish thing" if you so desire it to be. You can forgive the other person, and they never even have to know. The forgiveness is for your release, not the person who placed the initial transgression upon you. As a life coach, it's AMAZING how much weight we will endure every day that others have dumped in one of our days. But like hoarders, we WILL NOT let it go! We'll add it to our wheelbarrow and with spit and vinegar roll it into our future... I LOVE the last words you said this woman had said... "NEVER let someone who adds nothing to your life, control so much of it".. I am going to use that in all my coaching engagements now.. :) SUPERB presentation!!
Chris Banzet Thanks again Chris, I know we're now connected on Linkedin but I just wanted to thank you for watching, for your kind words of encouragement and praise. I love your thoughts about forgiveness and carrying "that burdensome wheelbarrow around". Forgiveness is indeed for our own release. Thanks again!
Thank you Sylvia.. :) It takes a lot to impress me enough to remember a saying, but your speech was absolutely one of the best I've seen in a long while. I've used the "Never let someone who gives no value to your life, control so much of it" ALL the time now...LOL That story will "Stick" in my mind for a long time. In the near future when I set up some of my coaching speaking engagements, I'm going to be begging you to come be one of the speakers.. :) That's for sure!
Chris Banzet You're too kind. Thank you Chris. And really great to know that the saying is still resonating strongly with you. Advice we should all certainly take to heart for sure. And yes, keep me posted on your plans to set up your coaching speaking engagements. I would be happy to oblige :-)
+thelittlehelper12 Thanks very much. In terms of great books, there is one called "The Speaking Secrets of the Masters" by Speakers Roundtable and Cavett Robert. Another good book is "The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs" by Carmine Gallo. Wishing you the best on your speaking journey
+Catrina Licudine Sorry I just realize that my response to you from many months ago might not have shown up to you. I've been a Toastmaster for quite a while about 10 years. And no it wasn't always easy and actually still isn't easy. I have just committed to practicing as much as possible to help me improve. My best wishes to you Catrina.
@Aprinsa, it's great to have an opinion, but know that the opinion does not generalize to all - the opinion cannot speak for everybody. That something does not move Mr B's life does not in any way suggest that it won't move the lives of others and vice versa. It's not mandatory that people see things the same way - the world would be screwed if that was the case. @Sylvia, great job - thank you so very much for the speech. You came close.. I don't know have many times you've competed, but you've to continue restrategizing and aiming to be world champion, regardless of any setback you may face along the way. As you know, Dananjaya competed for 8 solid years or so before becoming world champion in 2014. I suspect there are other past world champions who competed at least twice before winning..I expect to see you at the final of the competition in the near future, probably competing against me as one of the contestants! You are blessed.
Oyakhilome Wallace Ibhagui Thank you also for sharing your perspective and for your kind and generous words of encouragement. This was my first time competing and it was a wonderful and eye-opening experience for sure. I hope to someday compete again when I have a message important enough to share. I hope as well to meet you someday in the near future and yes perhaps we'll be sharing the same platform together :-) Continued best wishes to you and thanks very much again for your support.
+dirish mohan Thanks and yes I completely agree with you. So often it appears that the folks who make the judges laugh the most move on to the next round and that's unfortunate because it has to also be about the substance of the message. Best wishes to you.
My dream is to contest for World champion Of Public Speaking.i need some one to connect me how to apply for it. currently im MC, Motivational speaker and im teaching others on PUBLIC SPEAKING. public speaking has become my passion.thanks SYLIVIA your video so motivating
+REMIGIUS KAZAURA Thank you for watching. In order to be part of the World Championship contest, you would have to begin at the club level and keep qualifying through the rounds until you get to the finals. Typically it starts with about 35,000 contestants from more than 100 countries. I see you sent me an inbox message so I will share more with you about where to begin the journey. Thanks much
Okay, at first I thought she was the runner-up, but now I realize she was in the semi-finals. I feel better now that I've put her speech in perspective. Because I didn't think this speech was great enough to be the runner up for the world championship. People like to treat speeches like this as if they're the most profound thing on earth, because they feel guilty if they don't. I mean, yes, "put it in perspective" can be a useful piece of advice. But that's not the piece of advice the woman actually gave her - that's just her comparing her problems to that woman's problems. Honestly, it seems like Sylvia didn't understand the lesson the woman was really offering her - which is to not let others (like the man who shot her) control our lives. Because that's exactly the thing I didn't like about Sylvia's speech - she says "put it in perspective" as if she's trying to control the audience and force us to do so. It's the same thing we see in commercials and that our parents may have told us all the time, and yet... something was still missing. "Finish your dinner - some kids in Africa are starving." What? What do those two things have to do with each other? I can watch videos and films about the horrible atrocities of this world all day and all night, and yet? Does that change my life fundamentally? Does it solve all my problems? Do my problems cease to exist? Maybe for a few minutes. Then they just come back. I watched 12 Years a Slave. I thought it was a good movie, but I didn't feel that much about it afterward, although it was intense and painful to watch. Merely watching films about slavery might contribute some small thing to my consciousness, but it doesn't change my life. It doesn't suddenly turn me into an effective activist. We all have little problems. Sometimes it helps to remember that there are bigger problems out there. But the world needs more solutions than "put it into perspective." A hell of a lot more. I would like this speech more if it weren't for the fact that I hear this "put it into perspective" advice all the time. And I took a public speaking class where I found out that students would rate each other's speeches highly merely because they talked sympathetically about some kind of horrible violence, and not really because the message was that new or thorough or revolutionary. What I think is revolutionary is nonviolent communication.
@Aprinsa, I certainly appreciate your feedback as I do with ALL feedback. An opportunity for my continued growth and learning. I'm glad you realized that is was indeed a semi final speech as I put that at the beginning of the video and in title description. Veronique's advice to me was indeed about not letting others control and overwhelm us and the way she triumphed over the horrible thing that happened to her (allowing her to move on with the precious second chance at life), was indeed to "put things in perspective". When we don't put things in perspective, we walk around the earth being re-victimized by the challenging things that happen to us in life. My goal wasn't to control the audience but rather to share an important message (I'm by no means perfect as a speaker) and encourage us all to remember how important it is to put things in perspective. Putting things in perspective doesn't immediately solve your problems I absolutely agree, but it can indeed change your life fundamentally as it makes you more mindful of how you react to things that happen to you. Which ultimately influences how you experience life. Thanks again for sharing. Wishing you the best with your public speaking project.
Sylvia Baffour , great speech,thanks
Thank you and sorry for my delayed reply. Not sure how I missed your comment. Many thanks
The most inspiring speech I have ever heard. It's like it is alive.
@Neelanjana Paul, thank you very much for your kind words. Best wishes to you.
Wonderful speech! I myself am a member of a Toastmasters club in India. I have checked out a few TM speeches uploaded on TH-cam and have realized that we need to "see" or "watch" a good speech as much as "listen" to it. The best speakers speak as much or perhaps more with their body as they do with words. Your speech was a terrific example. Many thanks for sharing.
tlsudarshan Many thanks for watching and for your kind words. Much appreciated. Best wishes to you.
Another powerful speech by Sylvia! I've heard it several times, and it still brings tears and yes... enlightenment.
It is an important story I was grateful to bring to light. Thank you for your kind words.
your speech was the one of the best speeches I have heard in years!!!
@Ron Betts, thanks very much for your kind compliment. Best wishes
Ron Betts truth indeed! #1 in my book!
Great speech from a wonderful speaker! I often think about how important it is to keep things in perspective when I complain about life. Thanks, Sylvia.
That was a fantastic speech with a strong message... Hatsoff to u and the lady who went through hell but she put it in perspective
@hemanthneo many thanks for watching it and for your kind words. My best wishes to you.
I enjoyed this speech, as a new toastmaster member I look forward to hearing and giving speeches that are inspirational and motivational and this one was both, thanks for sharing - God bless
Thank you very much for watching and for your kind words. My best wishes to you.
I have watched this on behalf of my uncle, whom you know as Chris Banzet, and I must say, as a child who was picked on and teased, the quote used by Franswa's mother "Never let someone who gives you no value to your life, control so much of it". I believe that this will help me next time a boy in my class begins to give me problems I will, as my uncle says, "smile and say 'validation'" its as simple as not letting him under my skin. I enjoy your stage presents and animation in your voice. I hope someday to be as good at public speaking as you.
+Angel Rieker Thank you kindly for your words of Praise and for letting me know Chris Banzet is your uncle. Great guy :-) I'm very glad to hear that you will be able to take those words to heart and be encouraged and empowered by them the next time someone in class gives you problems. Keep jumping at every opportunity you have now and in the future to practice a little speaking and you'll be well on your way to becoming a superstar for sure. My very best wishes to you Angel :-)
How important it is to keep things in perspective, THANKS! Sylvia
Thanks very much for watching Ivonne. My best wishes to you.
Strong speech. You transmitted me lot of emotions. Beautiful! I learnt a lot of this speech.
+justinn87 Thank you very much for watching and glad you were able to take something positive away from it. My best wishes to you.
i just love the speech... i cried
Thanks very much for watching Jerome. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Best wishes to you.
Great talk. I believe all of us are students of our past and what matters is how we translate that past into memories that shape our present reality. The lesson is clear: stop complaining and start appreciating God for where you are.
+Raphaels Manasseh You're absolutely right. Thanks for your insight. A great reminder for us all, especially when we're faced with challenges to overcome.
+Raphaels Manasseh Well put Bro. Yes And we humans need to assure that The God is the Center of our actions in the light of His Holy Word. With Lord's blessings & wisdom we can overcome the worst hurdle we may face. All Glory due His mighty name. Shalom!
Sylvia Baffour You are right
Sure
Great Job, Sylvia! Your hard work created a memorable message. Put it in perspective is a great reminder to us all that our problems truly pale in comparison to those of others.
Thank you very much Ian.Your support and encouragement is very much appreciated.
the most engrossing speech till now. keep up the good workI am an international speaker too.
+ayushmaan chopra Thank you very much for watching and my very best wishes to you on your continued journey as an international speaker. Cheers!
Loved your body expression and the impersonation of your friend!
Thanks for the reminder to put things in perspective - just what I need now when I quit a job because a heartless manager! :)
+Collective CASA Thank you kindly for watching. You're right that it's often about us just being reminded to put things in perspective. I wish you the best with your work situation.
Thank you for uploading. I think that the delivery was great.
Awesome and inspirational speech... Thanks a lot for sharing it..
uday p Thanks very much.
What a wonderful and timely speech.
Thank you very much for watching. My best wishes to you.
wow.. you are very good at story telling..got my attention from the start. Well done
+refilwe nong Many thanks for your kind words. Best wishes
very powerful speech"put it in perspective" am inspired sylvia
+daniel musyoka Thanks Daniel and glad to hear you're inspired
Thank you for conveying Veronique's beautiful wisdom to the world. Never letting someone who contributed nothing to your life control so much of it. I wish you could have focused more on that message. Especially when there's so much violence in the world right now that people cannot escape from, exactly her experience, and mine. Just the mere right to live free from torment is more than a lot of us get. Maybe the material for a future speech?
@Sveva Iceni Thanks very much for watching and sharing your feedback. Veronique's wisdom stands the test of time for sure. I'm sorry to hear that you've had to endure the torment of violence as well. You're absolutely right about the level of violence in our world today that has become inescapable for so many innocent people. I would have loved to have focused more on Veronique's message for sure, but it was important to create the build up showing the atrocities she endured, to really appreciate her words of wisdom in the end. That's the unfortunate challenge of having to stay within 5-7 minute restriction with this kind of speech. Perhaps I will indeed consider elaborating further on her strand of wisdom in another speech. Many thanks again for stopping by and sharing your valuable insight. My best wishes to you. Sylvia
Outstanding speech! Bravo!
@Black Crow, thank you very much for watching. Take good care!
Sylvia Baffour I'm planning to join my local Toastmasters Club. God bless.
@Black Crow, very glad to hear that. Best wishes to you.
Sylvia Baffour Thank you. I just received my New Member Kit from Toastmasters. I can't wait to begin my journey to ultimately become a World Champion Public Speaker.
@Black Crow, congratulations on taking your first step. Work hard as you grow in your speaking ability and focus most intently on delivering moving messages that matter and that will take you a long way on this journey for sure :-)
excellent speech and I liked the way u carried ur idea and presented the guys. and I love the way u expressed holistically...superb work friend...
Thanks very much for watching. Best wishes to you.
Excellent!
Amazing speech Sylvia! absolutely wonderful. what are you doing now?
+craigslist273648289198349732 345678 Thank you very much for watching. I am currently doing presentations full time as well as some coaching. My very best wishes to you :-)
Thank you for this very precious reminder to put it in perspective. So needed to hear it at this point in my life. 💕
@divania, I'm very glad this was a helpful reminder for you. Wishing you all the best.
Hi Sylvia, have become a TM and was browsing through speeches and yours showed up !!! Good one and well done . Hope you are working on getting back in there and winning the title (if at first you don't succeed ...........!) especially after what happened in 2015 with the top 3 being non American the playing field is open. Go for it . Will get in touch God bless. Uncle Eddie :-)
+Edmund Bannerman Hi Uncle Eddie, lovely to hear from you and thanks for stumbling upon my speech and for your words of encouragement. I'm not sure if I will compete again. Making it to second place in my semi was quite satisfying. I have my attention and focus on some different things but I will inbox you so we can chat more about that. I look forward to catching up with you very soon. Do you use Viber or Whatsapp? If so, would you mind sending me your number via a private message here or my sylviaspeaks email and we can chat there soon. Love, Sylvia
Great speech and storytelling skills! I aspire to deliver a speech half as good as this.
+Matty Mills Thanks very much for your kind words and thanks for watching. Best wishes, Sylvia
WOW! Me encanto tu discurso. No solamente la manera de darlo sino el mensaje: “Ponerlo en perspectiva”; “no dejes que nadie que no aporta nada a tu vida, tome las riendas de ella”.
Sylvia muchas gracias por recordarme lo que deveras es importante en la vida, además de que eres una excelente oradora y deseo aprender de ti para mejorar mi carrera en Toastmasters.
Felicidades!!
@Rocio Granados - Gracias por sus amables palabras de elogio. Deseandote lo mejor.
That was great! "Put it in perspective " thanks for sharing!
@Jabrita thanks very much for watching. Best wishes to you.
You are very welcome, and added success to you as well. Keep Moving Forward!
This is an awesome presentation. Keep on speaking Sylvia. I am Inspired by your narrative and suspense your created. Your gestures are cool.
+Kurian Musa thanks very much for your kind words and for watching. Best wishes to you.
What does "Put it in perspective" mean ? very good speech .. Does it mean give less importance to negative things
+vishal hedge thanks very much for your feedback. it does indeed mean that and also includes anyone who doesn't hold much significance in one's life.
hi, sister i am indonesian....
nice speech and so wonderful speaker....
+Desti Nadea greetings and thank you for sharing your feedback. It is very much appreciated. Best wishes and take good care.
yes your welcome, i want to be smart in english like you... where do you come from? could you help me?
+Desti Nadea haha I'm not sure about the 'being smart in English part' :-) I'm from Ghana. I'm not exactly sure how I can help you remotely but I would be happy to recommend some ideas for you. Feel free to send an email to info@sylviaspeaks.com and we can keep in touch that way. Best regards
ok.. next i will my mind on your email..
i am so happy can recommend it..
best regards too
Excellent piece there Sylvia, very inspiring.
+Baraza J Namunyu Thanks very much for your compliments. Have a great weekend.
Great speech Sylvia, very inspiring!
+Sylvie Ouelega Thanks very much for your kind words. I'm glad Veronique's story inspired you. Best wishes
Sylvia your speech is moving, inspiring, absolutely awesome!! Your execution, delivery and landing of your message was a delightful display to watch. I've only competed in Toastmaster International speech once. However, I was blessed to make it to District. It is my plan to compete again soon. You know, as I read through (some of) the comments, it is always interesting to read of those who write an entire dissertation of critiques about how someone's speech could have been more of this or that. But isn't that always the way of the critic. Respectfully, most don't have the courage or the goods to build the art. They only have voices of critique about how the art could be better, offering no positive feed forward or words of worth for how to add onto making someone's frame better (LOL). Besides, we all already know that improving upon something (anything) is an ongoing, never ending road. It's like technology... like computer software that we constantly have to update because of improved advancements. For sure speeches are the same, and can always be improved upon. But so what! Just know that you both inspire and have done what few will ever experience. So bravo to you Sylvia. Anyway, just wanted to share with you, no matter the outcome, I thought you hit your speech out of the park my dear. I am immensely inspired by your story and the always comely advice of "Keep it in perspective" you shared:) Truly, a joy to watch a real pro in action. Thanks for the view. Blessings :)
Thank you kindly Charisse for taking time to write so thoughtfully and share your encouraging insights. I love the idea of "Feed forward". You're so right about everything being a growth process. My goal is continue to be a better speaker with every opportunity. While we all know that there is no road to perfection, we commit to doing what we can to be better today than we were yesterday. Thank you again for your kind words and support. I'm sorry it took me 6 months to reply. I'm not sure how I missed your comment. Wishing you the very best. Sylvia
Great speech ! Keep it up...
+Sarwar Hossain Many thanks for the encouragement.
Great speech!!
@Angela "leonids" Smith. Thanks very much
hey, very great speech, worth sharing.
+Gavin Chisambo Thanks very much Gavin. And thank you for taking time to watch it. My best wishes to you.
+Sylvia Baffour , thank you too, i joined TM 6 month ago, speeches like this will help me to develop myself.
Sylvia, that was INCREDIBLE! For those who were attempting to argue a finer point about whether the topic moved them or not, one would have to ask, if they are capable of movement?
One thing I would like to add to your GREAT words in this public speaking engagement is that most hang onto the past because they cannot genuinely understand the values of forgiveness.
I hear many people say they cannot let that person be forgiven for what they've done. Then I ask, BUT, can "you" be forgiven for letting it happen again tomorrow?
They always look at me with very confused and defensive eyes.. And I go on to say, this person may have done the initial transgression, but it is "YOU" who now continues to re-do it to yourself again and again, by putting it in a wheelbarrow and carrying all that weight into tomorrow.
Letting oneself forgive, can be a "selfish thing" if you so desire it to be. You can forgive the other person, and they never even have to know. The forgiveness is for your release, not the person who placed the initial transgression upon you.
As a life coach, it's AMAZING how much weight we will endure every day that others have dumped in one of our days. But like hoarders, we WILL NOT let it go! We'll add it to our wheelbarrow and with spit and vinegar roll it into our future...
I LOVE the last words you said this woman had said... "NEVER let someone who adds nothing to your life, control so much of it".. I am going to use that in all my coaching engagements now.. :)
SUPERB presentation!!
Chris Banzet Thanks again Chris, I know we're now connected on Linkedin but I just wanted to thank you for watching, for your kind words of encouragement and praise. I love your thoughts about forgiveness and carrying "that burdensome wheelbarrow around". Forgiveness is indeed for our own release. Thanks again!
Thank you Sylvia.. :) It takes a lot to impress me enough to remember a saying, but your speech was absolutely one of the best I've seen in a long while.
I've used the "Never let someone who gives no value to your life, control so much of it" ALL the time now...LOL That story will "Stick" in my mind for a long time.
In the near future when I set up some of my coaching speaking engagements, I'm going to be begging you to come be one of the speakers.. :) That's for sure!
Chris Banzet You're too kind. Thank you Chris. And really great to know that the saying is still resonating strongly with you. Advice we should all certainly take to heart for sure. And yes, keep me posted on your plans to set up your coaching speaking engagements. I would be happy to oblige :-)
Wonderful speech Sylvia. Thanks for sharing... :)
TY Many thanks for watching and for your kind words :-)
Very inspiring and motivating Sylvia.... :)
+eSh MilLeR Thanks very much
Great speech! Are there books or videos you'd recommend for making good speeches?
+thelittlehelper12 Thanks very much. In terms of great books, there is one called "The Speaking Secrets of the Masters" by Speakers Roundtable and Cavett Robert. Another good book is "The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs" by Carmine Gallo. Wishing you the best on your speaking journey
nice.....
+Neymar Naveen Thank you for checking it out.
Great speech
Sorry for my delayed reply and thank you for watching the video. My best wishes to you. Regards, Sylvia
After that speech 22 ppl disliked this video
Thank you for Video! Best greetings from Toastmasters Ukraine Clubs & English-speaking community!
@Dr Victor Fursov, thanks very much for watching. Greetings and best wishes to you and your toastmasters club :-)
How long have you been a member of toast master?and was it always easy for you to give speeches?
Great speech and thank you for sharing!!
+Catrina Licudine Sorry I just realize that my response to you from many months ago might not have shown up to you. I've been a Toastmaster for quite a while about 10 years. And no it wasn't always easy and actually still isn't easy. I have just committed to practicing as much as possible to help me improve. My best wishes to you Catrina.
@Aprinsa, it's great to have an opinion, but know that the opinion does not generalize to all - the opinion cannot speak for everybody. That something does not move Mr B's life does not in any way suggest that it won't move the lives of others and vice versa. It's not mandatory that people see things the same way - the world would be screwed if that was the case.
@Sylvia, great job - thank you so very much for the speech. You came close.. I don't know have many times you've competed, but you've to continue restrategizing and aiming to be world champion, regardless of any setback you may face along the way. As you know, Dananjaya competed for 8 solid years or so before becoming world champion in 2014. I suspect there are other past world champions who competed at least twice before winning..I expect to see you at the final of the competition in the near future, probably competing against me as one of the contestants!
You are blessed.
Oyakhilome Wallace Ibhagui Thank you also for sharing your perspective and for your kind and generous words of encouragement. This was my first time competing and it was a wonderful and eye-opening experience for sure. I hope to someday compete again when I have a message important enough to share. I hope as well to meet you someday in the near future and yes perhaps we'll be sharing the same platform together :-) Continued best wishes to you and thanks very much again for your support.
Awesome! Proud Cuz!
Many thanks Kojo. Glad to have been able to bring Veronique's story to light. A woman with incredible perspective for sure :-) Thanks again my dear.
Leaving the toilet seat up was unacceptable though:)
Excelente!!
Sorry for my delayed reply and thank you for watching the video. My best wishes to you. Regards, Sylvia
nice speech...which place did this speech win in the Semi Finals..
+dirish mohan Thanks much. It was second place in the Semi Finals.
nice...in a time where i notice humor gaining predominance over content..nice to find such a speech make a mark...god bless!
+dirish mohan Thanks and yes I completely agree with you. So often it appears that the folks who make the judges laugh the most move on to the next round and that's unfortunate because it has to also be about the substance of the message. Best wishes to you.
Tnx and wish u the same☺
My dream is to contest for World champion Of Public Speaking.i need some one to connect me how to apply for it. currently im MC, Motivational speaker and im teaching others on PUBLIC SPEAKING. public speaking has become my passion.thanks SYLIVIA your video so motivating
+REMIGIUS KAZAURA Thank you for watching. In order to be part of the World Championship contest, you would have to begin at the club level and keep qualifying through the rounds until you get to the finals. Typically it starts with about 35,000 contestants from more than 100 countries. I see you sent me an inbox message so I will share more with you about where to begin the journey. Thanks much
Cvalenti30 recommended your page, he says you're Great! !!
Yolanda Smith Thank you Yolanda. Good to meet you :-)
I feel like I'm seeing a good actress performing an act ...
Nice story though.
wow!!!
@ASAD SHEHRAS BAZZ thanks very much for watching.
YOU ARE WELCOM..
You made my day :)
+Vinoth kumar V.N Glad to hear :-)
Wow
Sorry for my delayed reply and thank you for watching the video. My best wishes to you. Regards, Sylvia
Okay, at first I thought she was the runner-up, but now I realize she was in the semi-finals. I feel better now that I've put her speech in perspective. Because I didn't think this speech was great enough to be the runner up for the world championship. People like to treat speeches like this as if they're the most profound thing on earth, because they feel guilty if they don't. I mean, yes, "put it in perspective" can be a useful piece of advice. But that's not the piece of advice the woman actually gave her - that's just her comparing her problems to that woman's problems. Honestly, it seems like Sylvia didn't understand the lesson the woman was really offering her - which is to not let others (like the man who shot her) control our lives. Because that's exactly the thing I didn't like about Sylvia's speech - she says "put it in perspective" as if she's trying to control the audience and force us to do so. It's the same thing we see in commercials and that our parents may have told us all the time, and yet... something was still missing. "Finish your dinner - some kids in Africa are starving." What? What do those two things have to do with each other? I can watch videos and films about the horrible atrocities of this world all day and all night, and yet? Does that change my life fundamentally? Does it solve all my problems? Do my problems cease to exist? Maybe for a few minutes. Then they just come back. I watched 12 Years a Slave. I thought it was a good movie, but I didn't feel that much about it afterward, although it was intense and painful to watch. Merely watching films about slavery might contribute some small thing to my consciousness, but it doesn't change my life. It doesn't suddenly turn me into an effective activist.
We all have little problems. Sometimes it helps to remember that there are bigger problems out there. But the world needs more solutions than "put it into perspective." A hell of a lot more. I would like this speech more if it weren't for the fact that I hear this "put it into perspective" advice all the time. And I took a public speaking class where I found out that students would rate each other's speeches highly merely because they talked sympathetically about some kind of horrible violence, and not really because the message was that new or thorough or revolutionary.
What I think is revolutionary is nonviolent communication.
ohh they didn't have coded doors like they do now im sorry
shit I also read many books about Rwanda and have been there...blame the French who trained the Interahamwe