The new World Champion of Public Speaking

It's been a weird Saturday ... nice because we're on vacation, of course ... but bizarre knowing that the World Championship of Public Speaking was happening, and for the first time since 2003, I wasn't there to see it.

For Jim, it was even stranger - since he's been present for every contest since 2001.  But with everything we've got going on this year (can you say "wedding"?) our resources, both financial and vacation-time, have been a bit tied up.  We simply weren't able to do everything, and this year's sojurn to the International Convention had to get cut.

But just a few minutes ago, the text message came in from our buddy, Tim Swearingen - who, incidentally, won his election to International Director by a significant margin, and aren't I thrilled I can finally mention him in my blog once again because that damned election is over ... Tim, you'll be re-added to my "friends" blog list shortly - with the results.

Our home district's representative, LaShunda Rundles, was named 2008 World Champion of Public Speaking.  How cool is that?!?

I don't know LaShunda very well... I've seen her compete in both humorous and International Speech at various times over the years, and her speaking skills have always impressed me, as has her faith and conviction.  I am certain her speech today was indicative of those things.

Those who know me well know I rarely if ever play the "woman" card ... but there will be people who will say LaShunda is the first woman to win the title.  Jim has pointed out that's not true.  She's the first in 22 years - but in 1986, the winner was also a woman.

Personally, I believe LaShunda's accomplishment should not be colored by the fact that she's a woman, or for that matter, by any other factor.  She's not the best woman on that stage, nor were past winners the best men on that stage, or the best ethnic speaker on the stage or the best handicapped speaker on the stage ...

No.  The World Champion is the best speaker on the stage.  So regardless of what demographic segment the winner might fall within, it should neither increase nor decrease their amazing accomplishment.  It took time, effort, blood, sweat, and tears... and they deserve every moment of applause and adulation for their accomplisment as a speaker.

LaShunda, you've done us proud!  I can't wait to see that video!

Comments

[Shiryl]

Hey Angie,
I heard them say she's the first African-American woman to win the title, not the first woman.

But congrats to LaShunda Rundles.

[Andrew]

Angie: "She's not the... The World Champion is the best speaker on the stage."

_Very_ well said, Angie!

I, too, can't wait to see the video. As I researched the finalists for an article, my anticipation to see the performances increased. You may be interested to see the 10 finalists profiled on my blog: http://sixminutes.dlugan.com/2008/08/15/world-championship-public-speaking/

[Tim Swearingen, DTM]

Angie...You will never know how much I have valued the friendship and support that you and Jim have extended me during this past year. Thanks for your help and perspective!