Forgive.

I doubt because ofwhat Emerson has done to me few days ago.

During tonight's Table Topics session, I volunteered to answer a question about forgiving. I shared with my colleagues my anger and frustration with the shutters guild and the person who claimed he founded the club. One of the audience was a bit perplexed and was very attentive during the entire speech. I just smile because that colleage, Jeff, knows Emerson. They both work at Jarir. After the meeting, Jeff approach me and ask for more details of what really happened. After explaining the incident, Jeff confided to me that Emerson is currently thinking of going on legal actions. Jeff was laughing because he pity Emerson's cluelessness.

That night, I talk to Donnie and told him about Emerson's plan. Donnie just laugh.

Dinner with Gaveliers

Tonight, I had a dinner date with all the officers of Elitian Rhetorica Gavel Club at the Assaryah Turkish restaurant. I brought with me my wife Pinky and our two kids. TM Buddy also joined us and then later TM Jovett, TM Reina, with TM Jou catch up with us. We enjoy a sumptuous feast of grilled food.

I also show them the Plaques and certificates of the Gaveliers for tomorrow's recognition day. They were excited and happy to see the beautiful awards.

We left the restaurant after two hours. I was very full.


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Area 22 Contest

Beautiful contest, I could say.

It was one of the best Area contests that I have seen in Riyadh.  With Syed Asfaq at the helm, the flow of the activity was smooth and there was never any major disruption.  I admit I do not agree with Syed's dictatorial style on running the show particularly on seating arrangements, but I would certainly give him credit for enforcing discipline among the audience.  Except for lengthy and unnecessary introductions, everything was perfect.

Myself, TM James, TM Delfin, TM Romwald, TM Buddy, TM Shaun, and TM Roi were among the judges who served during the contest.  During the distribution of awards and certificates, I made fun with TM Roi that he is only known in the Indian community as the TM who is infected with HIV (Hair is Vanishing) and the speaker who climb the ladder.  I gloated that most Indian Toastmasters introduced me as "the best active Filipino  Toastmaster in Riyadh, a champion speaker, an excellent leader, an educational master, a superb mentor, the one and only... "   TM Joem simply smiled when Roi grunt in disbelief.  hehehhehe


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HH in Khobar

I only took two hours of sleep today.  At 2am, I was awaken by the phone call from Tito Wilson advising us that T2 Jun Saporsantos is already waiting for us.   We immediately prepare the kids, our things and we started driving towards Madarem at near Exit 8.  And because the road was near empty, it didn't take us more than 10 minutes to arrive in the place.  T2 Arnel and T2 Rick - aside from T2 Jun - were already there.  They were just waiting for me and T2 Willy to start our convoy to Khobar.

T2 Rick took the lead car. Hehhee.. they all agreed to set me in the middle of the convoy knowing that I am fast driver.  And true to what we previously agreed, we cruise at 80 - 100 kph.   Gee... we were very slow and it made me very very sleepy.  I was so sleepy that was a moment that I swivel three lanes on my left.  Good thing, there were no other cars on the road.  I made a recovery just in time before I would fall on the road shoulders.  T2 Arnel notice that swivel and he immediately called on my phone and asking if I need an alternative driver.  I assured him that I was okay.


After a grueling four and half hours of drive, we finally arrived at Khobar. 

I love the place where we stay. It is a large apartelle suite with two big rooms, a huge sala, three comfort rooms and one nice kitchen.  The place is also clean and the room service was good.   My family took the masters room while T2 Arnel and T2 Jun shared the other big room.  T2 Willy and T2 Ric opted to share the very huge sala.  T2 Wilson will be on the other suite and will share with T2 Chris Miranda - who will arrive later.

We actually arrived very very early.  Our household will start at 7pm and the Lay Communion Service (LCS) will start at 10pm.  Meaning, we have the entire day to relax, move around and go shopping.   T2 Wilson and T2 Arnel went out to buy seafood at Khatif while the rest of the ladies prepared the house.







                             *                             *                             *                             *

Me on the other hand left the apartelle because I have a Toastmasters District 79 meeting to attend.  I was actually arrive late but not later than the Jeddah delegates.  I was just in time for the critical agenda of the meeting - the educational plan for the district - the part that matters on my Area.   I stayed until lunch and then went back to the apartelle.

                             *                             *                             *                             *


Tita Vicky was surprised to see me in formal clothes.  I just smiled and told her that I attended a Toastmasters meeting.  I proceed to our room and took a much needed rest.

Mommy woke me up at around 3pm.  Every body gathered in the kitchen to partake the sumptuous buffet of adobo, fish, and blue crabs.   We had a good time and did enjoy the food.  Me and Tita Mabel was particularly happy with the delicious blue crabs.  I guess, I eat 3 dozens of large blue crabs.  Whew!  After lunch, I went back to sleep.

We started our household at around 7:30pm.   As usual, we had some good time bonding together and sharing each others' joy and sorrows.  We made fun with each other - kulitan - and we always encourage each other.  I guess, we have matured as a household that we are no longer restricted by our inhibitions.  Tita Marian, who was the most timid among us, started to be assertive and open.  She even shared to use some personal secrets about T2 Arnel.  T2 Arnel gave us a revelation that he is now ready to accept responsibility in the community.   Tito Wilson, our household leader, gave us an inspiring message that made everyone smiling.  We enjoy our household meeting so much, we didn't notice that it was already past 11pm.   We close the meeting and started preparing for the LCS.

Minutes later, the FFL servants who were based here in Khobar start arriving.  I was nice knowing that there were three servants who are from Cagayan de Oro.


More picture in mommy's FB account

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.234241249927292.67694.100000242572580

I got my Jordan visa

Finally after weeks of heart-stopping suspense whether our visa application would be approved, I received an email with the list of names of Toastmasters who are good to go.  I was number 2 and approved.

Yes! hello Jordan and I will be seeing you Petra.

the second best

Yep, you are right.  I was the second best contestant in the Speech Evaluation competition during the 2011 Division A Toastmasters Annual Conference held at the Riyadh Palace Hotel.  The only person who beat me was TM Sankayan Aier of the Riyadh Toastmasters Club. This was the same person who beat me in the Table Topics contest during the Area 1 conference held last April.  And I also remember, he beat me last year in the International Speech contest also in Area 1 conference. Score: Sankayan- 3, Nathan - 0.

There were actually five contestants and these five were the finalist or winners among the 5 different Areas of the Division A.  TM Mohammed Al Hajeri represented Area 38, TM Sunila Chaku from Area 22, TM Federico Delfin who was the 3rd place winner comes from Area 4, TM Sankayan the champion comes from Area 1, and I represented Area 5.  Many Toastmasters said that it was tough contest and we had very close fight.  Considering TM Sunila was the division champion three years back, TM Al Hajeri was a champion 4 years back, TM Delfin was the champion in 2005 & 2004, and TM Sankayan was a 5 times champion; the fact that I beat three other former champion was already a feat by itself.

I was happy, of course.  Initially, I just thought of joining the contest and said "let's get through with this".  It never crossed my mind to join-to-win.  All I wanted was to participate and make a good performance.  Now that I have the 2nd price, well... that's a consolation.

Palm Crest JS Prom speech

Few days ago, tito Noel hinted the Palm Crest may invite me as judge and mommy Pinky as the guest speaker for their annual JS Promenade. He asked my permission if he can give my number to Tito Russell Malveda, which I readily agreed. Indeed a day later, Tito Russell formally invited me and mommy to their JS prom as judge and guest speaker, respectively.

You could guess happened next: mommy was frantic. She was angry with me why I accepted the invitation... and she started thinking of alibi on how to retract and decline the invitation. I was not affected though. This is just the typical mommy who always doubtful of her beauty and skill. She started to calm down when I promised to help her write the JS Prom speech. I know mommy trust my ability to create a good speech that is appropriate for the occasion.

Well, here I am now writing mommy's speech. The choice of words were mine, the structure and the transition. But the overall tone and content? It was all mommy's idea.

Here's the first draft of the speech:

Salutation

Palm Crest Board of Directors Mr & Ms Danny Lopez, Mr & Ms Russell Malveda, School Administrator Dr. Dominador Mangusad, School Principal Dr. Araceli Cabral, Academic Chairman Jacquiline Dela Cruz, School officials, our beloved teachers, and most especially to you the Junior and Senior students of Palm Crest International school… good evening!

Class Reminiscing

Twenty five years ago, I can still vividly remember my own JS Prom. Like any girl in our class, we all dream of wearing beautiful gown, walk with poise during the presentation, and to make that evening a night to remember. Indeed, it was a very memorable night for me, but not the way I wished it would be… only better!

What you see right now is the anti-thesis of my high school self. Before, I love to wear loose shirt and jeans, put on my favorite black sneakers, and carry with me my denim backpack. Safe to say, I was more of a boyish type than your typical cutie girl next door. Imagine how my classmates went into euphoria, when for the first time they saw me wearing a ladies’ gown. It was transformation beyond imagination, they say. And I believe it was!

Before the prom started, I intensely prayed that my partner would be my childhood crush - the school varsity and the hunk of the class. But lady luck did not smile at me. When I saw my escort, I almost fainted because it was not a dashing prince charming but a skinny and lanky lizard. Gee… my partner looks like he just woke up from a coffin.

But as the night goes by, I was surprise to found out that my lizard escort was a gentleman, he was funny and talented – he gave us an awe full version of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and more importantly he delivered an inspirational speech that was full of wisdom. Needless to say, I was totally bewitched by the lanky lizard.

My JS prom story was simple but the lessons I gathered from it had a profound effect to my life and to my circle of friends. And that is what I wanted to share to you tonight.

{{ take a long pause while looking and smiling to the audience}}

Challenge for the Juniors

To all Juniors… (let me see the hands of the Juniors?)... please allow me to greet you “congratulations and welcome to the teenage and young adult life”. Tonight is your right of passage! You shall no longer be called girls but ladies, likewise to the male, you should no longer be called boys but instead gentlemen. You will soon take the first steps of how to manage yourself, on how to be a leader among your peers, and how to become inspirations to the younger generation in your school.

Collectively as a class, ahead of you is the responsibility to maintain, if not surpass, the level of achievements that the Seniors had achieved in the past years. In your own unique way, find your specialty and strength, and then make your school proud. Be competitive, be excellent, but keep your feet in the ground – be humble all the time. Next year, you have to take the shoes of the Seniors. You need to stand as the big brothers and big sisters of the Palm Crest International Schools. Be the model of discipline and be the face of what it is to be a real PCISian so that the young boys and girls of the school will wholeheartedly emulate you.

On a personal level, Juniors, this is your time to shine and be seen. Get out from the closet of insecurities; break free from the cocoon of doubts; take the bold step of knowing who you really are, and then explore of your own uniqueness.

I took my challenge twenty five years ago, and found myself as the Lady Pinky and not the boyish Pinky.

Once again, Juniors, welcome to the world of teenagers and young adults.

The marching Seniors

To the graduating class, our Seniors (let me see your hands please), congratulations and welcome to the real world. In just few weeks, you will be leaving the comfort and warm embrace of your alma mater – the Palm Crest International School. As you turn-over the helm of leadership to the Juniors, be proud of what you have achieved. I am sure that this year, you made your school proud.

You will soon walk the path that all of us – adults – had taken. A path that may defined your our own destinies and may shaped your our fates. Some of you may already know what course to take: Engineering, Medicine, Teaching, or you may choose to stay and help the family. Perhaps some of you are still doubtful. That is alright. Take your time, consider all your options and be certain of what path to take. Remember, there is no reset button in life: there are no exams and no grades … your decision will define who you will be in the future.

Tonight, I want you to look around and remember your teachers and peers. These are the people who help mold who you are today. Remember your teachers: they made sure that you have the right skills and knowledge to prepare for the next chapter of your life. Remember your peers: these are your buddies, your friends, and your partner in crime (just kidding). They are the memories of your high school life.

Pick a choice, make a decision and excel on that field.

Closing

Twenty five years ago, I made my choice. And I am happy to say that now, I am a successful educator… just like the way I wanted to be. My journey, by the way, was not easy. I have more downs than up, but it didn’t matter. What was more important was the learning experience every time I get up from a fall.

Oh by the way, you may ask: what happened to my skinny lizard escort? I can see you are giggling… you are curious, aren’t you?

I still get in touch with him. He became a successful family man and the last time I checked, he is no longer skinny but has big tummy. He is still a reptilian though, not a lizard but a big crocodile. This crocodile is no other than my beloved husband and partner in life.

Good luck to all of you. Be a successful PCISian.

now... i am angry

Last night, my blog was the avenue to I expressed my disappointed with TM James on the way he answered my query regarding the Area 5 contest. Now, the tempo was raised on the higher - we exchanged heated email.

I called up TM Willy to explain my side. I also cleared it out that he is not included in the list of those who I am angry at, and ensure him that it's just between me and James. Later in the morning, I responded to the buzz of TM Roi. I guess, he was surprised with the chilly exchange of emails. Like what I said to TM Willy, I told him that I was very disappointed with the way TM James handled my query. TM Roi warned me that the entire Area 5 officers were included in the mailing list, and thus it would not look good if we further exchange bad words. I assured him that I will stop replying on the email and ... move on. hehehee....

here's my last email reply to James:

Dear Mr Area Governor,

You are not the one who will be competing in the Area contest but we, the winners of the club contest. I would really appreciate if you have the temerity to ask if we are available on a scheduled date. You can simply do this through channels (our club officers) or you can speak to us directly. If you had been on our shoes - winners, then perhaps you would understand the feeling of what it is to be deprived of change to compete in the the area level.

For the record, I didn't ask in this email to move the date, but I simply requested for information on how the March 25 was selected.

And yes, I apologize because I didn't know that your role as Area governor calls for prerogative to decide on this matter. I would love to be corrected provided you can point this out in the Area Governor's manual or in the Toastmasters International rules. Lastly, as your assistant governor I would love to follow the direction of a leader in the Area, had I only found it.

Thank you for pointing out that as matured and professional Toastmasters we should move on. I will move on and remember that I was not given a change to compete because our leaders didn't inform us personally that resulted to conflict of schedule. Email is never an official way to inform your members, unless previously agreed.


Sincerely,


Nathaniel Amores, ACG/ALB
PICPA Riyadh Toastmasters Club Past President
Area 5 Asst Governor - Marketing
Division A Speakers Bureau Chief

---

From: James Taruc
To: TM Nat ; Himalayan-TM Mariam Khurram ; Himalayan-TM Sarwat Ahmed ; Himalayan-TM Najma Fazal Makki ; Himalayan-TM Fayyaz Ashraf ; TM Tahira Hoke-PSU ; TM Tahira Hoke ; TM Sara Afif-PSU ; TM Madawi Al-afaliq-PSU ; TM Arwa Al-Hajji-PSU ; TM Rawan Al-Furaih-PSU ; TM Arnold ; TM Reina Tejano ; Perlito Lastimoso ; PSME-Resty Sibug ; fortz03@yahoo.com; neil.reguine@gmail.com; marvin.mayo@hotmail.com; HRC TM - TM Reem Alali ; zkenkar@hotmail.com; good.4.ever@hotmail.com; TM Willy Ignacio ; TM Willy Ignacio ; TM Guillermo Del Mar ; TM Guillermo del Mar
Cc: TM ROi ; TM John Erick
Sent: Wed, February 9, 2011 1:39:34 PM
Subject: RE: REMINDER: Notice: Area Level Speech Contest (Area 5)

Dear TM Nathan,

It seems that from the moment I have sent the email on December 25, you failed to check this notice. I am just wondering right now, February 8, that you are poking this obvious question of yours...is it because you will be on vacation on that date and I failed to move it on your request?

You are sending this email because you will be a contestant in the area and not as an area officer who should have always the interest & enthusiasm to inquire in every Area activity.

The dates were agreed on by fellow Area Governors and it will remain as prerogative of the Area Governors, regardless of who the potential contestants are...whether they will be here on that date or no...As your AG, I believe that announcing the Area Contest date (March 25) have given the club presidents ample time to advise their club members.

I understand if you have bitterness that you could not compete in the Area Contest but this is life...as matured & professional toastmasters, we should move on...


James Edward S. Taruc, CC/ALB
Area 5 Governor, Division A, District 79
Toastmasters International
Contracting and Construction Enterprises (CCE)
Tel No.: 01-416 1122 x 2125; Fax No. 01-416 1948
Mobile No.: 055 020 5381
"Speak, for tomorrow is uncertain"

P How many trees were cut to make papers? Think twice before printing.

---

Date: Wed, 9 Feb 2011 02:04:57 -0800
From: nathan_amores@yahoo.com
Subject: REMINDER: Notice: Area Level Speech Contest (Area 5)
To: tupusg_ovp@hotmail.com; marriam.khurram@gmail.com; sarwatahmad@yahoo.com; najmamakki@yahoo.com; fayyazashraf@yahoo.com; muhajjabah@yahoo.com; thoke@pscw.psu.edu.sa; sara.afif@yahoo.com; madawi.s.alafaliq@gmail.com; arwa_08_h@yahoo.com; rwteefa@gmail.com; arnold_valeriano@yahoo.com; reina.chrystia.5@gmail.com; pupung101@yahoo.com; engr_resty@yahoo.com; fortz03@yahoo.com; neil.reguine@gmail.com; marvin.mayo@hotmail.com; mba.alali@hotmail.com; zkenkar@hotmail.com; good.4.ever@hotmail.com; willyignacio@hotmail.com; willy@jarirbookstore.com; guillermodelmar@yahoo.com; gdelmar@pbad.sbg.com.sa
CC: roi@safari.com.sa; ericktapales@yahoo.com

Dear Mr. Area Governor,

I would like to request for information on how the date March 25 was identified as the Area 5 contest date. I as member of the Area 5 council was not informed about this nor there has been any Area council meeting to decide regarding this matter.

Should there be email correspondence to this effect, please do not assume that we all read emails daily. I would humbly request to call us or inform us personally.


Respectfully yours,

Nathaniel Amores, ACG/ALB
PICPA Riyadh Toastmasters Club Past President
Area 5 Asst Governor - Marketing
Division A Speakers Bureau Chief

Disappointed

Past seven in the evening, I went to Elite International School to attend the annual humorous speech contest of PRTC. I was one of the judges who selected TM Roi Ontiveros as 3rd place winner, TM Sheila Marie Tan as 2nd place winner, and TM Donnie Ray Aquino as humorous speech champion. I could say, the contest run smoothly and overall was successful.

It was after the contest - while having snacks - when I learned that TM James scheduled the Area 5 contest on Mar 25. This news came as a surprise because there was no prior inquiry from the Area Leaders on whether the contestant would be available on the said date. When I seek for clarification from James, I was caught off guard when he arrogantly responded that it was decided by the Area Governors.

Who said that these matters are decided by the governors alone? Gee... that should not be. Each governor has an area council who should collectively decide on matters like this. James as the Area 5 governor, never even lift a finger to call a meeting during the past six months.

I was so furious I walked out of the room to get some fresh air. I was so disappointed with how TM James was handling the affairs of Area 5.

busy friday

Officially, this would be my first busy Friday of the year.

We woke up early this morning to prepare for the annual Foundation of Palm Crest School. My daughter Jasmine has a part in the the field demonstration hence we were obliged to really to early. I bought my camera with me hoping I can get some good pictures. Well, I didn't. I left the venue an hour before the program started because of a speaking engagement. I left my camera with Tito Noel hoping he would take some pictures of my daughter.

* * * *

I was thirty minutes late for my speaking appointment with the Integrated Institute of Electrical Engineers. They were already in the middle of the program when I arrived and they wasted no time, they immediately revert to the original schedule. The seminar was formal and it was a pleasant surprise to see many familiar faces and some good friends from the Philippine embassy.

My task was to conduct a lecture on Parliamentary Procedure and at the same time facilitate a workshop on how to conduct a proper meeting. Upon seeing the participants, I was sure that there were a handful attendees who were familiar with the topic because they had attended my previous seminars. The rest were newbies and totally not familiar with the topic. That's why, there were sparkle in their eyes when they discover the hidden and unspoken rules of meeting. The discussion was made much livelier when I directed them to comment on the current affairs in the Philippines such as the Senate Investigation with the AFP Fund.

They enjoyed the lecture so much, we didn't realized we extended for over an hour. I immediately left after receiving a token of appreciation.

* * * *

I went back to the venue of Palm Crest foundation day celebration. I watch for few minutes then decided to take my family home. It was simply too hot and we were too hungry.

PRTC Induction - 2nd Term PY 2010-2011

Gee how time fly. It seem like yesterday when PRTC held it's bi-annual induction of officer during my term as president. This is now the third term that I am just a regular member of the club. Obviously, I am still savoring the joy of being on top of things with PRTC - once. Hehhehee...

We held the induction at Al Waha compound near Exit 1. Due to some strict restriction on security, we limit the attendance to just 50 participants. Both me and Pinky confirned our attendance and brought along with us two official photographers and 5 guest - the friends of Johnis.

The induction was conducted flawlessly - I was the program director (bow), and we have a jolly and wild party after. It could had been perfect, except that we finish early. Bummer!

changes

After sixteen months since my family arrived here in Riyadh, my life changed totally.

My photography activity is virtually dead. I still teach photography at Comsofil every Friday but that is nothing compared to my activities before. I can't even recall when was the last time I attended a photo session. To make it worse, I am not sure where my gears are. The last time I remember, Noel Zaragosa has my 40D, Emerson has my 20D and my accessories... nah, I doubt if they are still intact.

And my Toastmasters? I am not sure if I am going to be active this year. After three years of extensive immersion with Toastmasters, I believe I learned a lot. I got this year's Toastmaster of the Year award. I also completed my communication track and was awarded Advance Communicator Gold. I was also busy with my leadership track and completed my High Performance Leadership Program which I used for the Leadership Excellence Award. All I need is to serve as Area Governor and I will have my Distinguished Toastmaster norm.

But then... what up for me in the coming days?

Train the presidents

I never thought, I can speak in public!

Twenty years ago, I almost failed during my undergraduate thesis defense simply because I could not present my work in English. Can you imagine, I presented my case in our vernacular - 100% of the time. I could not speak a single word of English!

Then my speaking skills change and it came rushing like avalanche since three years ago. That was the time when I joined Toastmasters. I really never thought I would develop to be a leader much more a speaker. Yet today, I was invited to serve as trainer for the incoming club president for the 2nd term of Toastmasters program year 2010-2011. It was a great privilege, and I felt proud about it.

Officially, I have twenty-five registered participants - all presidents - from different clubs of the entire Division A. However, before I started the session, some members asked permission if they can sit-in during the training. I readily agreed provided they have to take the back seats and will not be given any hand outs. Then, people starts coming in to our large conference room in Riyadh Palace Hotel. To my surprise, the total participants swelled to almost forty.

* * * * *
The training went well. I didn't use the TI-ready materials because I know from experience that using that, as is, would be boring and flat. Instead, I use a different presentation slides. I incorporated the TI-ready material and merge it with some leadership resources. As a result, my material were reinforced it with new slides that aims to trigger discussion and open forum. True enough, I successfully get the participants involved in the discussion and even during the presentation.

My message was "Don't be afraid to take risk and accept the responsibility of being a leader of the club, because you are the club president".

visit to Qassim

I was still half asleep when Jay called up early this morning to remind me of our trip to Qassim. I was still tired but I could not say no to our Area 1 governor. I already begged off last month, I felt it is not appropriate to turn him down again. As sponsor of the newly minted First Qassim Toastmasters Club, I felt that I have the obligation to show up and provide the much needed educational session for the club.

There were eight of us in the visiting party. Former governor TM Hassan Maghasel, Area 1 Asst Gov for Marketing TM Ilias, Riyadh Toastmasters president TM Mohammed Mohsin, and TM Jay in the first car. I was the driver on the second car and with me are the president and the VP-Education of the Arabian Stallions Toastmasters Club, and another TM whom I forgot the name.

We left Riyadh at around 9:30am and was expecting to reach Buraidah city at around 1:00pm for the 350+ kilometers journey. I initially thought of cutting it to 12:30pm but I hold back upon realizing the road was a steep downhill ravine. Even without putting on gas on the engine, my car was running at 180kph and could have gone faster if I didn't occasionally step on the brakes. Two hours later, we were caught in a huge sandstorm. Visibility was near zero and the farthest distance that I can see was around 10 meters. When I notice that I can no longer see the blinking signal of the cars ahead of us, I slowed down to 60kph. Good heavens, after an hour in that ordeal we pass by the sandstorm safe and sound.

My party arrived at 12:29pm, 15 minutes ahead of the second party. That gave us enough breather to relax and prepare ourselves for the meeting. That's why, we were in better shape when we meet our counterpart at Qassim Toastmasters Club.

* * * * *

I was surprised to see so many participants in the meeting. There were over 30 young Saudis who showed so much enthusiasm and promise. They never showed hesitation when call to speak in the lectern and gee... they were smart! Honestly, these bunch of Saudis impressed me so much it actually erase my long-held stereotype notion that Saudis are stupid. I am totally convinced with their quality that I declared in the meeting that in just few years, these new breed of Toastmasters will sweep the competition in the District. They are really good!

We enjoyed the sessions so much it took us 3 and a half hours to complete the meeting. After exchanging few pleasantries, we bid adieu and left Buraidah at 5:45pm.

Our trip back to Riyadh was a bit slow. We were running on an uphill road and aside from the dark roadside, the sandstorm was still raging strong. It was already zero visibility with less than 3 meters recognition/warning window, and we could feel the wind was pushing the car sideways. We saw several accidents along the way and those scenes prompted me to slow down. I was forced to run at 15kph on a super highway. Hah! My fist time.

An hour later, we got a clear view of the sky. Finally, was pass by the sand storm belt and literally saw a well lit road side. Like a vengeful hyena, I push the gas pedal to the max and keep up the speed at 160kph. Other vehicles also did the same which resulted to a mini race on the super highway. Then... a sudden blinding flash hit us from the dark hillside. I realized, I got caught for over speeding. Tsk.. tsk.. tsk... that's SR300.

Well, after four hours of travel we arrive in Riyadh safe and sound.

2nd in Table Topics

There is a saying that goes: "A prophet is often not recognized in his land"

I think this is true. TM Reina beat me in the recently concluded Table Topics Club Level Contest. To make it worse, my moles said that I won over TM Ruben by barely one (1) point. Gee, is that how bad my performance was? What hurts the most was for my always supportive wife to declare "Your answer was far too off".

Arggg…. That nailed it. I don't have my touch anymore.

The question

As technology increases, our capacity to experience life to fullest diminishes.

Whoever coined this question must have gas spasm and diarrhea. I hate you TM Willy. Hehehehhee. Seriously, the question was indeed challenging and thought provoking. I didn't know how the contestants answered the question because I was the last speaker. What I was more interested was to learn how TM Reina and TM Ruben answered the question. Bitter! weehehe…

My answer

Anyway, I attacked the question using my signature chronological + contrast and comparison technique. I started with Alexander-the-great complaining that he is running out of "worlds" to conquer and fears that he may not experience life's full potential. I jump to Roman Empire when emperors declared Pax Romana with a subtle message that they achieve life potential in the absence of war. Lastly I cited the British Golden Era when the great minds of the time declared that human civilization reached its peak because they discovered everything there is in the world.

I made a contrast and comparison that the definition of "experiencing life to the fullest" varies from one era or civilization to another. What was defined before as "life to the fullest may not be applicable in today's setting"! Travelling across great seas was the "ultimate experience" in the Victorian era. That is just a day's experience in today's standard. To experience playing basketball with the pro would be an "experience" 10 years ago. Today, you can do that over Playstation or Nintendo WII player.

Summing it up, I discuss that: technology therefore does not diminish our capacity to experience life to the fullest. It changes the context, the level, and the definition of experiencing life to the fullest.

I parting, I challenge the audience with the following lines: I have live my life to the fullest according the definition of my era – the 80s. I would not expect and will certainly not force my son and daughter to go walk the path that I took because I know they will have their own definition of what is life to the fullest. The challenge therefore is… are you aware of their needs. Are you sensitive enough to understand that our ways is not the ways of the new generation? Can you accept that we are already outdated?

You got it?

See… I didn't mess up with my answer. Perhaps, they are just too naïve to understand my awesomeness! Wahahahhaa… bitter! Weeeee

Winning the Table Topics Contest at ToC

"Dinaan mo lang sa delivery, kaya ka nanalo (it was through delivery why you won)" TM James quipped.

TM Richard shared the same sentiment that's why I didn't win in their score sheets. Would you believe, they prefer TM Monching Austria over me? Personally, I may agree with these two bitches. It is not because they truly knew me and my gulat (wow) factor no longer works with them, but because I also found my answer wanting.

The table topics question was "What would you prefer: Intelligence or Common Sense and why?"

How I answered the question

I attack the question using the situation in the house this morning where mommy was angry with me for not helping her in the household chores. "Helping your partner is common sense", she said.

And then I dissected the definition of common sense as a set of rules both spoken and unspoken on how an individual should act in a civil society. I made a chronological comparison that the definition of common sense during the stone-age era, during the time of Alexander the Great, and in our Technology-age era varies greatly. What is common sense today may not be the case a thousand years ago. I made a transition to Intelligence by explaining that some people do not adhere to the homogeneity of a society. These are the bigots who dare challenge the de-facto. These are people who dare to be different. As an example, I cited Albert Einstein who does not comb his hair – combing is common sense – because he is fully preoccupied to his science. Another example that I used was Shakespeare, whom I claimed, write his poems and novel while being naked. Exposing oneself naked for too long in Europe environment was an open invitation to sickness and disease. Common sense dictates that you should not do that.

I anchored my conclusion that I would prefer Intelligence over Common Sense because I want to be different. I don't want to be an ordinary Toastmaster. I want to walk paths that is less taken – set up new clubs despite pessimism among colleagues. I don't want to sit down and wait for the club to bring excitement. I want to stand up, get myself involve, and help carry the club into new heights of achievements.

In parting, I challenge the audience saying "Fellow Toastmasters, I made my choice; what about you?"

Winning it

After delivering my speech, I immediately left the contest session. I still have a party - our CFC household Christmas party - to attend. I didn't tell mommy that I joined the contest. If I did, she might not permit. I just made an alibi that I have to go to the office.

I was still on my way to Tito Wilson's house when TM Jay called. He told me the good news that I was declared champion in the Table Topics contest. TM Monching Austria was 2nd and TM Jou Pabalate 3rd. An hour later, TM James informed me of the same news. It was that time when he confided that I did not get the 1st place in his score sheet. Likewise with that of Richard's.

Well.. they may not give me their nod but I got the remaining judges: TM Abs Yasin, TM Enrico Abad, TM Rod Ganzon, TM Leila Corres, TM Akram, TM Omar.

Toastmaster of the Year

I am beaming with a naughty smile! Hehehehe

Bear with me for being a little "evil" today. I am still savoring my victory for the quest of Toastmaster of the Year.

For one, I beat the competition fair-and-square. There was no last minute "rigging" on the point system – which reminds me of what happened last year when the awards committee changed the parameters and points on the last minute. I still harbor this ill feeling that the motive behind that move was to rob me of 4,000 points. Second, I won with a run-away margin over the second placer TM Roi. Read this: 49,500 vs. 32,000 hah! That is a clear victory compare last year where I lost, yes I already conceded, with only 700 points difference. Lastly, I earned the points through labor of love. Imagine conducting over 30 educational sessions and speaking engagements, bringing in 13 new members, setting up 4 new clubs – a record of its own, YLP and Speecraft programs, and achieving 5 Toastmasters norm – another record of its own. Not to mention, winning contests in the club and the Area on Table Topics, Humorous Speech, and International Speech.

Overall, I served Toastmasters in the club, the area, and the district with almost all my energy and time. Yes, I could say I have more than enough this year.

Benefits

Now that I am the Toastmaster of the Year, what then?

I guess nothing. I'm still the same fat, chubby, and happy TM Nathan. I will still attend regular meetings, help Filcom-IT club, assist TM Jay with new clubs. This time, however, it will be at a mellowed intensity.

I believe the biggest lesson I learned on my journey with Toastmastering is not so much on the speaking skills. It was more on developing my skills in the avenue of leadership. In fact the 15^th anniversary was my litmus test and though I barely pass, I could say… "now I know".

DTM

With ACG Norm in my sleeves and Leadership Excellence norm by next week, the only remaining hurdle for me to reach the ultimate norm – The Distinguished Toastmater (DTM) – is to serve as elected officer in the district. The easiest path would be to serve as Area Governor this coming July 2011.

For the meantime, I will offer my speaking and leadership skills in the service of my Creator and my God, through Couples for Christ Foundation for Families and Life (CFCFFL).

PRTC 15th “Crystal” Anniversary – the making

My father used to say "Great challenges separate the Boys from among Men"!

Always, I bragged that I can manage. I know how to ask someone to work or perform specific task. This confidence was grounded on the premise that I got good managerial skills and had handled a number of projects to my credit. But this time, I fought, lost most of the battles and... barely won the war!

When I thought I could handle the chairmanship of the PRTC 15^th Anniversary with ease, I was dead wrong!

Yearbook Project

It all started sometime in July when TM James shot an idea of compiling all the accomplishments PRTC and then print it like a yearbook. When I disclose this idea to some of my close friends in the club, they were all positive and supportive. They even suggested that I can use this as a project for my Leadership Excellence norm with Toastmasters International. Emboldened by the prospect of making a legacy for PRTC, I took the challenge of heading the 15^th anniversary of PRTC. By August I formed the committees, started sending emails to inactive members explaining my purpose and at the same time soliciting for ideas how to improve it. TM Ramed Borja, TM Fritz Armada in Dubai, TM Obet Geronimo, and TM Ditas Tiamzon were among the first to respond and supported the project.

After long deliberation and exchanges of emails, we finally decided to hold a formal anniversary party with a Masquerade Theme – Parisian Style. Ladies were requested to wear evening gown plus mask and the men with tuxedo or coat plus mask. When it was announced in the club, there was overwhelming excitement and anticipations.

To our surprise, TM Oscar Vanderlipe declared that he will sponsor two round trip tickets to any destination to Europe for the winners of the best costume of the night.

Time table

By September, the Executive Committee (Execom) officially sanctioned the project and designated me as the chairman for the Crystal Anniversary.

I thought I had a good lead time, but the months of September and October came and go like a breeze. The tight PRTC schedule of activities and long holidays screwed our timetable and handicapped most of my committees. We failed to meet even once and I rely solely on emails and phone calls to coordinate with the team. Much as wanted to force them to set a deadline, I know I cannot do that. They were volunteers and not my subordinates. All I can do was ask for favor and wait.

By mid November, I started to borrow the Execom time and inserted anniversary as main agenda in the meeting. Thankfully, the beautiful people of Execom indulge my intrusion. Some members of the anniversary committees also joined such as TM James who heads the souvenir committee, TM Richard for the invitations, and TM Willy for the decorations. And almost all members of the Execom became part of the anniversary committee. TM Reina handled the awards, TM Arnold as assistant chair, TM Rolly for finance, TM Guiller and TM Sheila for concept and design, TM Perlito for invitation, and TM Roi for the program.

TM Ron's Case

Since September, we've been marketing that Dec 16 would be the anniversary date. Hearing no reactions from the members, we concluded that this would be an acceptable date for everyone. We even announced it to all other Toastmasters Club in the Division. Then on Nov 16^th, after our regular toastmasters meeting, TM Ron started to question why we scheduled the anniversary on Dec 16^th? He argued that by tradition, the anniversary should be on the first week of December or 10^th at the most. TM Reina stood up and explained to the body that this was part of the term-schedule that was announce last September and was properly aligned between PRTC activities to give the Execom some breathing space.

I initially wondered why TM Ron questioned the schedule where in fact, he knew from the start and he didn't object. Later I discovered that he may not be able to attend the party because his vacation schedule was set on Dec 15^th. Personally, I don't want TM Ron to miss the anniversary on two grounds: he is the recipient of most awards and he is the fulcrum of the party – he can easily swing the mood of the party to vibrant tempo. That is why I lobbied to the committee to move the date from Dec 16 to Dec 9. There were violent reactions, believe me, and I almost got crushed by the heavy opposition had it not been with TM Arnold who stood by my side.

I fully understand the furor of the committee. We were running out of time, we were financially flat broke, and we don't have warm bodies to execute the plans. TM Rolly has not started the collection and failed to produce a decent solicitation letter. TM James started to show paranoia on the possibility of completing the souvenir in time. We don't have layout, zero pictures, not even one article and we barely have a month to finish all. Only TM Sheila was upbeat enough to complete the marketing campaign and the concept design. As a leverage, TM Arnold and myself volunteered to shoulder the initial expense on the premise that the club will pay us in due time.

By November 23^rd, we officially announce to the club that the party would be on Dec 9, 2010.

Crunch Time

The change brought havoc to our schedules.

The last day of submission for the application of the "The Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year" was moved a week earlier, we need to change the guest speaker due to unavailability of the Philippine Ambassador on the new date, we reduced the number of expected participants from 100+ to less than 60, and the harshest change: we reduce the pages of the anniversary souvenir by almost half. After removing the articles, 20 plus pages of pictures, highlights per president, and highlights of area governors – we were

left with only 66 pages. A far cry from the planned 150 pages!

Bleeding Time

The events during the week of the anniversary were so tense and mind blowing, I almost gave up. I even swear "this will be the last and I will never be involved again with Toastmasters". Honestly, there was pinch of truth when I uttered those words.

I was frustrated with my team. My committees failed to deliver the simple task assigned to them. TM Roi sat on the program too long and when I criticize his obviously run-the-mill programme, he went ballistic. I pointed out that he should have at least given the program some thought and not use recycled and uneventful sequences. TM Rolly failed to collect fees and for that I have to use my personal monies. Yes, I have to close my eyes when I bleed over SR3700 to cover all ends. Oh, I bought 40 pieces of assorted beautiful mask for everyone and that is aside from the 66 gifts my wife prepared. Another headache was TM James. He asked too much of my time when he assigned me to prepare the photo-timeline of PRTC. That alone took 3 days of my life. And to see him redoing what I

did, that was simply discouraging. Why didn't he do it himself in the first place? I could have used three days as a wide window for hunting possible donors and sponsors. And don't ask how difficult it was to find a printer that would deliver 80 copies in a day. I want to forget those horrendous moments.

But all of the above pain was bearable. I have resigned to the fact that these people were volunteers and not my minions. I have to make do of whatever was available and who were willing.

What had driven me to madness were those times when members – particularly inactive members – started complaining that I have not done enough for the anniversary. To add insult to the injury, these members insinuated that they may not come (I read boycott) due to security reasons. I did beg, bow down, swallowed mountain-full of pride (and saliva), and cried wolf just to convince them to come. Yet, they were cold and critical to the end.

During these crucial times I admit it was my beloved wife who kept my sanity intact. She was with me from planning, preparation and execution. Had it not been with her, I had easily given up.

Party Time

Now I fully understand why party goers often see only the glam and lime lights and do not appreciate the preparation that comes with it. We go to the party and enjoy – not talk about the bad things on it.

When the spot lights started shining, the camera flashes started firing, and when the guest in their gorgeous dresses started littering the ballroom area, all my qualms complains and pains simply vanish in the air. The overwhelming joy of watching the show running smoothly and successfully lifted my spirit. It was a thousand times more than enough to pay for our ordeal.

My wife was simply stunning with her peacock ensemble. She won the best costume for female category. On the other hand, TM Jojo in his Phantom-of-the-Opera suit won the male category, and Sarah Perez in her super sexy night dress with elaborate mask won the guest category.

There were small lapses along the way but it was too minor to notice. Overall, we have festive one-of-a-kind and a memorable masquerade party where everyone was enjoying.

See photos in the PRTC Facebook account. Follow this link

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?id=100001724364278&aid=15405

Learning by doing

I was happy, not only because I won the Toastmaster of the Year award, but because that night I have proven to myself I can also be a leader and not just a manager.

Finally, Advance Communicator Gold

After two years and nine months, 40+ speeches, several dozens of Educational Sessions, 4 YLP programs, 3 Speechcraft programs, and numerous minor meeting roles, I finally achieve my Advance Communicator Gold norm.

It was not easy, believe me. I changed two manuals along the way. I started two projects from the Humorously Speaking manual before switching to Storytelling manual, and I also started one project from Public Relation manual before switching to The Entertaining Speaker manual. It was also difficult to find evaluators because there were only a handful advance Toastmasters even outside our club. Most of the CC Toastmasters were too afraid to evaluate thinking I am already a veteran.

I know this is long overdue. It was ages, April 28 to be exact, since I received my Advance Communicator Silver. Our VP for Education, TM Reina, had been bugging since June to complete my ACG norm but during the past six months, I dilly-dally. Instead of delivering speeches, I concentrated on Educational Sessions and setting up new clubs.

Hey, I already have four clubs up in my sleeves as of now. That is a record in PRTC and in Area 5 as well.

Ron is now a DTM

"You deserve it and it's been long overdue". I smiled as an utter those words to TM Ron Jacobe.

Ron finally received his Distinguished Toastmasters (DTM) from the headquarters of Toastmasters International. "He deserves it" is actually an understatement. Ron is known in the Toastmasters circle as the best speaker of Saudi Arabia aside from being a proven leader. "It's long overdue", simply because Ron achieved all the requirements for DTM since 2005. All he has to do, actually, was file the form and submit it to TI, but he didn't do it.

The people behind it

Three years ago, when I asked him why, he simply answered "I lost faith on the norms of Toastmasters." I couldn't blame TM Ron for thinking that way. When I look around Riyadh and gauge the quality of DTMs, I was just disappointed. None of them bears a semblance of a good quality speaker and none of them has the caliber to be a good leader. Ron explained, being associated to these DTMs "kuno" is what he fears most.

Then two years ago, I made it my mission to convince him to get the DTM norm. I want to prove to the Toastmasters community that there exists a "real" DTM in the person of DTM Ron. At first, I was polite in asking for his records and certificates of which he responded with a smile and a promise to give it to me. And yes, I waited but only to be frustrated that after a year, no paper ever arrived on my hands.

Finally last year, I decided not to wait anymore. I actively search his records from the archives of the club and sent numerous communications to the TI headquarters. We complained on the error of his CL norm which was rectified by TI on Feb 2010. Next step was to verify the year he served as Area Governor for Area 5. By May, the TI headquarters rectified their records and officially recognized that Ron served as Area Governor. Sometime in August, I started searching for High Performance Leadership Program manual. I tried contacting TM Jay Magh of Area 1, TM James of Area 5, and even talk to division governor TM Abraham Daniel. Nobody help me get one. Left with no choice, I ordered the manuals from Toastmasters International headquarters – using my own monies.

I talked to Ron about my plan of using the Ginoo and Binibining Pilipinas 2010 pageant as his project for HPLP. Again, he just smiled showing a hint that he agrees. I took it as a yes, having heard no objection at all. After the pageant night on October 17, I started working of the paper works of Ron's Leadership Excellence norm. I asked TM Roi Ontiveros, TM Gerry Villaraiz, TM Perlito Amarante, and TM James Taruc to sign the papers and pose as assistance coordinators for the project.

By Nov 10, I asked TM Reina to submit the papers via email and attached the scanned copies of the HPLP project. A week later, I saw from the TI website that TM Ron was awarded with the LDREXC norm. I immediately instructed TM Reina to submit the application for Advance Leader Silver. By Nov 28, we filled the Distinguished Toastmaster norm for TM Ron. Since the application is online, we received the confirmation right after.

Finally, Ron is now a DTM