I gave my first political speech last night

[MaineDem]

I was the local representative for my presidential candidate of choice at a county democratic committee meeting. I was third to speak. We were given a 5 minute time limit.

The first presenter had screen, overhead projector, and upside down graphics. The second one sounded like he was teaching us something. Both exceeded the limit substantially.

I was under the understanding that I was merely to update the group on the campaign so far. I did that. I had also prepared some notes on my candidate's views on rural affairs, thinking that we live in a rural area and this might be something of interest. I'm glad I did that. I stayed within the 5 minutes. I was able to answer a few questions but I was unsure of a couple others so this morning I emailed the answers to last night's attendees.

How do people remember ALL the candidate's views on the issues? I felt like an idiot not having the answers at my fingertips. Hopefully, I'll be better prepared the next time.

Wow, my first time!

[HFishbine]

1. Who was your candidate

and how was the response?

[MaineDem]

5. John Kerry

The response was pretty lukewarm for all the presentations. I'm pretty sure these people - staunch activists - have already made up their minds. Plus, it was snowing and people were worried about driving home. Who knows?

[Aristus]

2. Congrats, MaineDem. You done good.

You'll do even better the next time, I'm sure. I'm proud of you! :yourock: :toast:

[MaineDem]

6. Thank you

:)

[Don_G]

3. I Wish I Could Give A Speech

Stage fright. :scared::scared::scared::scared::scared::scared:

[MaineDem]

7. That's one thing I don't have

I used to sing in public. Once I got over THAT fright I could do almost anything! :D

[Maine Mary]

10. That's half the battle-not having stage fright

I can write a good speech and answer questions ok-(I guess because a q is a give and take, rather then one sided thing), but I still have a hard time getting through the speech itself. Even if it's a friendly audience. You'd think after 5 and a half years I'd get over it but I haven't. I envy anyone who doesn't have to deal w/such an awful limitation.

Good Job MD! Wish I could've been there but I had to work.

[BurtWorm]

4. Sounds like you did pretty well!

And you'll improve with practice.

:toast:

[MaineDem]

8. I sure hope so

I want to make a good impression.

Thank you. :)

[underpants]

9. Congratulations

Kerry huh? That was my first choice I'm just waiting for the smoke to clear a bit now.

Well done.

[jonnyblitz]

11. kudos from a "Mainer in exile" ( I saw that on a bumpersticker

here in CT ) You will get used to public speaking after a few times if you keep doing it. The eye contact thing (where do you look?) and keeping the words flowing coherently were always the issue for me when I used to have to get up in front of groups of people in the navy and give training lectures. With practice you will become more at ease and get better at it. :hi