In our church, the people in the congregation speak each Sunday, instead of having the same preacher every Sunday. I just got asked to teach the 14-15 year old girls every Sunday, and then today the powers that be asked me to speak next Sunday. They used to ask you far in advance and then I would write it right off and spend the next 4 weeks freaking out. They also used to not give you a topic and spending all of that time figuring out simply what you were going to talk about was the worst. Traditionally the adults speak for about 20 minutes a piece.
But, this time, I only have a week to worry myself silly, they asked me to speak for only 10 minutes and they are giving me an article to speak from. All of those things make it a lot easier. That said, it doesn't help that I view public speaking in the same horror as dental exams. I have conquered some of my dental exams fears simply because I have started going regularly and I just expect them to find something wrong. It makes it much easier. But I don't want to get over my fears in public speaking by doing it regularly. I would rather do it not at all!
Thank heavens I only have to do it for 10 minutes. I can take up half of that time doing the standard introduction, where we are from, about our kids, etc. So, I can get through the time allotted without too many problems. My really main issue, besides sheer terror, is that I am a crier. A big one. And my emotions are more at the surface with church since Fiona got sick. I made Hubby promise to read over my talk and take out anything he thinks might be an issue. I don't think I will say anything at all about her being sick. People will eventually find out anyway or already have.
So, internet me some love, huh? Some advice? I sound fine, I give good talks, or so I have been told, I just need to not worry myself silly. I am very grateful for early morning church (less time to fret).
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4 comments:
You'll be fine. Just relax and do like Marsha Brady. Imagine them all in their undies.
That oughta do it.
You'll do great! And you know what? No one minds if you cry. I know YOU mind. But when I see someone cry at the pulpit, it just makes me think they're a real person. Hurray for the ten minute time slot -- twenty is always a lot to fill up. Good luck -- I'd say break a leg, but did you already? Or a foot?
You will do an amazing job. The great thing is that they don't know much about you yet. You can regale them with all kinds of info.
You are going to do great!
I am sure you will be great! And about the crying...people find it touching, so don't fret.
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