And can’t forget the interviews. Three or more senior officials in a huge room with the lonely individual being interviewed like having been thrown to the wolves or a lamb to the slaughterhouse, where questions about unknown things will be asked, and logical answers expected. These too were sort of training grounds for expressing yourself.

And then came my posting where I had quite a few districts and lots of branches under my control. This was the real arena for true public speaking. Lots of inaugural functions for businesses, press gatherings, sometimes even a big gathering of farmers with specific topics, health camps, orphanages, or even staff meets.

One of my colleagues and close friends was a wonderful and engaging public speaker. He had excellent command over the English language. He used to advise that one should look directly at the audience while speaking. Don’t shut your eyes and give the impression you are reciting memorized passages. Know when to pause.

After that, till retirement, my public appearances became limited to the send-offs.

The worst speech or an attempt at it came during my 70th birthday. It was at my elder son’s house in Seattle, and many of our relatives were attending. There were rithwics and priests too. After the ceremony was over, the chief priest asked me to say a few words. Having never prepared for this contingency, I was confused and, not knowing what to do, said, "Thank you all." What a great speech. Even to this day, I hang my head in shame at this incompetence. With some experience behind me, I could have done much better. But the time has gone. I feel really sorry about it.

In many of the meetings I attended, ministers and MPs were present. All these politicians are excellent speakers. And before them, to come out with your own brand of speech takes quite a bit of effort. One thing I can say—I started enjoying it. And enjoyment is a sure sign of progress.

Another great blunder I had committed was when I was teaching my eldest grandson about public speaking. I gave him a demonstration of how to give an interview to the press, how to give a lecture, and how to give a talk. And forgot to tell him not to mix these things up. He had entered a competition, and he exactly did that—combined the different methods. He didn’t do badly but could not win. I take responsibility for his failure and still feel bad. Now he is grown up and gives me lessons on public speaking!

If you are naturally endowed, it is good. Otherwise, no harm in learning from others or even taking a course. It will serve at some point or various points in your life.

Continued in 239 - Care and Scare - A Tale of Two City Hs - Part 1