Page 37 - May 2020

Sometimes Losing is Still Winning

to nothing to their names. I passed around schedule as a Pastor, and so I went on from the

the prayer book that was one of my Great club level to the Area level contest.
Grandmother’s only possessions when she left Saturday, February 22nd - My younger son,
her homeland. WyLee, came with me to check out my speech
I also shared a story about my Grandfather at the Area level contest. On the drive there, he

in WWII and I started to tear up mid-speech sweetly expressed that he didn’t want me to win
because he meant a lot to me. I also passed because he didn’t want me to leave the country.
around an old framed photograph of my I said not to worry, just to take things as they
Grandfather’s US Air come. If I won and we flew to Paris, it’d be quite

Force Unit. The yellowed a memorable family vacation. That seemed to
photo of these brave calm his nerves.
young pilots, gunners This time I arrived feeling ready, rehearsed
and bombardiers was and well prepared! I gave my speech on the

an impactful visual subject of loyalty, shared a funny story of my
aid. Grandfather Leon proposal to my wife, and a story about a client
Sheweloff (pictured whose loyalty I earned after she lost her home
bottom right) was clearly in a tornado. I shared my proven loyalty earning

proud of his squadron! mindset.
My first speech was My second speech was a success, and I came in
a success! I came in 2nd place again . . . out of two contestants—again.
2nd place . . . out of two My son was impressed and felt I should have

contestants. won. I explained that the other speaker was more
First place winner, enthusiastic than I, so she won fair and square.
Jeff Carr wasn’t able Second place still got to advance to the Division
to commit due to his level contest.

VOICES! | MAY 2020 37