Be the light to others’ darkness.

Helen Keller once said, “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.”

In 2015 I went through a traumatic experience that resulted in me losing my eyesight, in this moment not only did my physical eye close but I felt my dreams and plans coming to a close. The same was true for my Toastmasters journey, I could not see[pun intended] how I could continue with the program, the only choice for me was to give up…

As I stood in my little dark room developing negative thoughts, someone special called Lois Strachan, DTM turned on the light in 2016.

Lois became not only my defacto Coach, Resource fountain, Accountability partner, but also a friend who led me back on the path of hope, life and Toastmasters

What touched me the most was how Lois was willing to share her personal experiences and practical avenues to overcome any obstacles that might stand in my path.

Though we are separated by many miles and the crocodile infested Limpopo river, not to mention the fact that I am yet to meet Lois in person, the greatest lesson I have and continue to learn from her is to be a light that shines for others as they seek their own path in Toastmasters and life.

Today as I reflect on how I have progressed in my leadership and communication journey, what shines bright are not the awards that I have achieved, but rather the light that Lois ignited in me, the question for us all is- How many people are we being a light to in their darkness?

Tendai David Muranganwa, ACS, ALB

Educational Coordinator 2018- 19