No.487 English Meeting 10/12
The 487th meeting of Musashikosugi Toastmasters Club took place on October 12, 2024, at 生涯学習プラザ201. Conducted in English, the meeting started at 14:00 and concluded at 16:00, with 23 members and two familiar returning guests, Mr F and Mr Y in attendance. The meeting was called open by the President, TM K, and was led by TM H, the Toastmaster of the Day (TMOD), under the theme of “Sports.” Supporting roles were carried out by functionaries including Timer TM O, Ah Counter TM O, Vote Counter TM T, and Grammarian TM O, who also introduced the word of the day: “Good,” which speakers were challenged to avoid. TM A lightened the atmosphere with a humorous segment as the Joke Master.
The Table Topics segment, led by TT Master TM I., saw active participation from both members and guests, providing a platform for impromptu speaking. Speakers shared spontaneous thoughts on various sports-related questions, demonstrating quick thinking and creativity. Six participants, including guests Y-san and F-san, took part, adding a diverse range of views and experiences. The prepared speech segment followed, with four speakers delivering thoughtful presentations on a variety of topics. TM P began with a speech titled “Beyond the Game,” where he spoke about how sports build character traits such as humility, grace, and resilience. Next, TM T delivered “How Can the Weak Change?” a motivational speech on personal transformation using positive self-talk and affirmations. TM E’s speech, “Road to a Successful Pro,” focused on his personal journey of getting injured while pursuing basketball, and drawing motivation from the doctor’s words, emphasizing dedication and perseverance. Lastly, TM S spoke on “The Happiness of Sharing Good Music with a Friend,” touching on the joy of sharing interests with friends, and developing a skill of appreciating differences in taste.
The General Evaluation segment, led by TM K, provided feedback on the overall meeting and the quality of the speeches. Each individual evaluator, TM S, TM O, TM I, and TM P, praised the speakers’ strengths and suggested areas for improvement, emphasizing the importance of clear messaging and engaging delivery. TM K offered final remarks, noting the smooth organization and high energy throughout the meeting. The session concluded with awards to acknowledge the best performances: TM E was named Best Table Topics Speaker, impressing with his impromptu speech on hypothetically winning an Olympic Gold medal; TM P received the Best Evaluator award for his thoughtful and constructive feedback to TM S; and TM T was awarded Best Speaker for her impactful and inspiring message about personal growth.
Overall, the meeting was a lively and engaging session, where the theme of sports set the tone for discussions on perseverance, character-building, and personal transformation. Members and guests left feeling motivated, carrying forward new ideas and insights. The meeting once again exemplified the supportive and growth-oriented spirit of Musako Toastmasters in a warm and inclusive environment.