Someone like me who does not speak good English is going to participate in a contest, after making a public speech only twice? Honestly speaking, when I was chosen as a contestant, I felt "Me? Oh, No! I am in big trouble. What am I going to do? Oh, I feel so embarrassed." This was my honest feeling because I did not have any confidence at all with my English skills. I knew that my English level was the lowest among the club members, and moreover, I could not understand half of the speeches I listened to in my club. "I wish I could speak accurate English like that freely and with confidence." I was full of admiration and respect to my club members. So, I could not believe that I was going to participate in a contest.

However, Ann, Karen who won the All Japan Speech Contest in the previous year, and many members (they are all charming ladies) coached a poor English speaker like me zealously, with passion. I felt so sorry but was very grateful to them. At this moment, I strongly felt that I wanted to deliver good results for these people, and it made me feel warm and good from the very bottom of my heart.

Since then I practiced my speech every day like crazy in front of a video. When my practice counted 100 times, I began to think that I might be able to win the contest. How simplistic I am?

On the day of the contest, my physical condition was the worst with diarrhea and lack of sleep because of nervousness. As my turn came closer, my heart was beating faster, and I really felt like escaping from the venue. At last, my turn came. My legs were trembling when I walked up the stage. "Anyway, let's get on the stick and be cheerful at least at the opening. The opening is very important. If I could get a good start, things will follow." I had decided so. However, I became another person after about 30 seconds. I was able to see the audience very well. I could see Ann, Karen, and smiles of many other members who came to the contest to support me. I felt so good and cheerful. I felt the sense of achievement and fulfilled when I finished my speech. Frankly speaking, I did not care about the results. I was very happy that I had presented 100% of what I practiced.

My speech title was "Oh My Angel" and when I heard my name as the winner, I thought, "How nice the members of Key Force are. It is a wonderful club and everybody is like an angel." That feeling has not changed even now.

This contest gave me a lot of confidence. I've become to believe truly that if a man practices hard enough, he can survive somehow and he can achieve something." This event has become an unforgettable memory in life for me. My heart is full of appreciation and respect to the club and members, who gave me such a wonderful experience and excitement.

My English is still at the lower level as ever, but I am very excited to attend our meeting every month. Because I can see that not only my English skills but my speeches and communication skills are improving more than when I first attended the meetings, although it is gradual. I am going to study many things together with my good friends at my own pace with pleasure. I am so happy! Tommy Shimoyama

Div. B Humorou Speech Contest, 2002

(Translated by Rieko Ichiya and edited by Ann Sado Honjo)