Oliver Wendell Holmes said, "Once stretched by a new idea, the human mind never reverts to its original dimensions."  That happens when we embrace a Toastmasters GIFT ... the COURAGE TO STRETCH.  Your skills increase, your self image improves, and you begin to find your voice.  The second Toastmasters GIFT is ... the CONFIDENCE TO ACHIEVE.  This confidence impels you to test yourself and take on tough challenges.  Achievement feeds your self-esteem.  It fuels your desire to accomplish bigger and better things, and you realize that all things are possible to the person who dares to dream and take action.  Courage and confidence lead to the third Toastmasters GIFT ... CARING TO BUILD.  As you develop yourself, you start focusing on the well-being of others.

Dilip Bayasekara, DTM

Toastmasters International President