That was some 30 years ago, and I still can feel the butterflies in my stomach whenever I give a talk. At the time, however, I was starting a career in insurance and knew that I needed help communicating with my clients. So, despite my nervousness, I joined a club in Redonodo Beach, California. I envied the Toastmasters the Toastmasters who seemed so sure of themselves and asked my mentor how they had become so accomplished. I said, totally baffled.
Members fly their imaginary kites as high as they'd like.
Wanting to emulate my fellow Toastmasters, I built my first kite. It wasn't as big as most kites, but it was mine. As a World War II veteran, I painted it red, white and blue and attached a short string. I came to our next meeting clutching my new toy close to my side. As the meetings progressed, I slowly let my kite out to soar with the others.