public speaking

I pulpitted (is that a word?)

~ MaryG ~ 6 Comments

As part of my duties as a member of my church’s Executive Team, I briefly occupied the pulpit this morning. First time!

I’m pleased to report that despite my current state of mind, I was extremely pleasant. No F-bombs were dropped. I did not make any verbal references (veiled or otherwise) to the upcoming election, although I did wear my Chuck Taylor sneakers and some pearls. And also a brat-green t-shirt.

I received a couple of knowing compliments on my sneakers and feedback that I was a “natural” up there. I consider this a win (although I did forget to say a couple of things I had planned). Next time I’m going to write my remarks in large print on an index card, instead of looking at the tiny typeface on my phone.

Public singing vs public speaking

~ MaryG ~ 4 Comments
Daily writing prompt
Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech?
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I have performed on stages many times, with choirs and choruses. In the past, I wrote about how I took voice lessons in my forties so I would be better prepared for the occasional solo.

Public speaking is harder than public singing for me. I can’t remember ever giving a speech. I once presented an award to a dear colleague – in front of cameras and an audience – but I don’t think I had to say anything. They used my words (from a previous essay) to quote me while I was on the stage. Here’s the photographic proof.

Berklee 2017 Urban Service Awards

A side story to this photo is that Boston’s current Mayor, Michelle Wu, also received an award at this same event and I was seated next to her. This was before she was the mayor. At the time, she was a Boston City Councilor, but I did not recognize her. She looked so young. I thought she was a college student and I asked her what her major was. Then she got up to receive her award. Oops! Embarassing. (Sorry, Mayor Wu)