I finally ended my drought of speaking yesterday at six hundred thirty-four days! The last time I spoke was on July 19, 2010 for the Virginia Youth Leadership Forum in Richmond, Virginia.
Yesterday, I was in Big Lake High School in Big Lake, Minnesota and did a one hundred minute assembly for about one thousand nine through twelfth grade students and staff. I was a bit concerned about my strength and stamina going in; but, as usual, I fed off their energy and received a standing ovation at the end of my speech. I felt GREAT!
Then, the teacher who arranged my visit, Jessica Miller, took me for a quick, nutritious school lunch and we hustled back to their auditorium for five small group programs for about one hundred students in each program. My day was done about 2:10 PM and I was riding high, full of adrenaline and their energy! My doubts about my ability to handle a full day had vanished. Have I mentioned yet, I felt GREAT? I could have gone a few more hours.
My attendant had to drive me up there because I have not been driving for about eighteen months now; but, otherwise, it was just like I had not skipped a beat.
Ms Miller got my name from the September 3, 2011 article in the Minneapolis StarTribune article you can read by clicking here.
As a result of that article, this full page story in the Worthington Daily Globe, Facebook and LinkedIn, I have several more speaking engagements lined up. It feels good to be back in the saddle again!
As always, I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
10 comments:
To this day, you are still my inspiration! I am so glad you are back doing what you love but I miss your hugs!!
BRAVO ... BRAVO!!!!
Hi Mike,
The kids always gravitate toward those they deem desirable. You invite them in by your mere presence. God bless your upcoming speaking engagements!
Aways,
Cathy N
Hi Mike,
This is the best news I've heard in a long time. The world needs you and your message and your spirit. Children and adults can once again be uplifted and expanded by hearing your words of inspiration. Your message has served to inspire me for over 20 years. Let the talks begin!!
Mike:
I'm really glad you're back out there speaking to HS students. I hope you get many more gigs. Glad to hear the body can take the rigger of talking that much. Although ... I've never noticed you to be at a loss for words.
I'm sure you inspired many of the students.
Dave T
As someone who is in the same profession, I REALLY get it when you talk about being energized by the audience. Thrilled for you (and your audiences) to hear about your juice. Keep on rolling and rocking Mike, the world needs what you're bringing!
Sweet! Outstanding FatCat!!
Ruona
Mike, glad to hear that you're "back in the saddle" and doing well!! Congratulations!
Hi! So happy to hear you are out and about again. You sound so happy and energized!
Congrats!
Love,
Tory
Hi Mike,
I am thrilled your return to public speaking went so well for you. I'm not surprised you enjoyed it nor that you received a standing ovation. There are lots of kids that can benefit from what you have to offer.
Take care,
Sandy
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