Oliver Wendell Holmes once said,

"I find the great thing in this world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving: to reach the port of heaven, we must sail sometimes with the wind and sometimes against it -- but we must sail, and not drift, nor lie at anchor."

 

As a young man, I learned to sail. My brother and I spent many hours navigating the waters of Lake Erie. Early on, we learned the importance of knowing our destination, and of planning for success.

 

Toastmasters International is like a ship setting sail on an incredible global journey of phenomenal growth. Will we be prepared for rough seas and heavy winds while staying true to our destination? Or, will we drift along and allow the waves to push us off course?

 

There is an old sailing maxim, "The First Rule for Coastal Cruising: Start Early; Finish Early." As we prepare for a successful journey, we have an exceptional opportunity to take stock of and utilize all of our diverse talents. It is essential that we plan for challenges that may threaten to overturn us, and ready ourselves for an exhilarating and ever-challenging voyage.

 

It is crucial that we select strong and experienced leaders who will guide us with a moral compass, aligning our efforts with our core values. A wise leader will continually remind us of our destination, keep us informed along the way, and inspire us to keep moving forward.

 

In my professional career as a senior leader of quality improvement initiatives, I understand the importance of looking out over the horizon and envisioning the many possibilities the future holds. Only then can we chart a course for a new destination that merits the hard work and resources that will be required. As a visionary leader, I know the importance of having a clear destination, and continuously sharing that vision of the future with those on the journey. And yet, I remain ever-vigilant of cross winds and rough seas: forces at play that can distract and cause us to lose focus. As a Toastmasters Leader, I know the importance of keeping a strong hand on the rudder, while maintaining the flexibility to make midcourse corrections in order to stay on course.

 

Next August we will elect our next Second Vice President. As you make your decision, ask yourself 'Why Theo Black?' I am:

• An experienced leader, skilled in strategic planning and organizational management

• An experienced and engaging communicator who will continue to represent Toastmasters around the world with integrity and mutual respect

• A dedicated Toastmaster and Servant Leader with a clear understanding of the organization and the responsibilities of the office of Second Vice President

Let us set sail together for a new tomorrow. I ask for the honor to serve as our next Second Vice President.