June 17, 2026

This week’s meeting focused on roots, belonging, family, courage, and independence as we gathered around the theme “Roots and Wings.” The evening reminded us that our roots shape who we are, while our wings give us the courage to grow, explore, and step into new experiences.

Our Toastmaster of the Day, Dawn, guided us through a meeting that adapted gracefully to a different format than usual due to issues accessing our usual meeting room. Through her remarks and transitions, we explored the importance of flexibility, connection, and supporting one another through both planned and unexpected moments.

The Word of the Day was:

selfless (adjective) — concerned more with the needs and wishes of others than with one’s own

Our first speaker, Audrey, delivered a humorous and engaging speech about the limits — and surprising usefulness — of second-language learning. She explored her experience taking Spanish in school, only to later find herself on a New York subway trying to help a young Spanish-speaking tourist find her way. A key takeaway from her speech was that even the small pieces of knowledge we retain can still be meaningful, reminding us that sometimes one word, one phrase, or one moment of courage can help someone feel less alone.

Our second speaker, Andrea, presented a heartfelt and reflective speech titled “The Roots That Raised Me.” Through stories about growing up in Guam, her family’s immigrant journey from Hong Kong, and her grandmother’s restaurant, she examined belonging, community, and the meaning of home. Her reflections challenged us to consider how the places and people that raise us continue to shape our identity, leaving many of us thinking long after the speech ended.

The Table Topics portion of the meeting, led by Preetha, brought warmth, reflection, laughter, and connection to the room. Guided by questions aligned with the theme of “Roots and Wings,” members reflected on father figures, family traditions, dream trips, mentors, values, adventure, and the steady anchors who give us the confidence to take risks.

Thank you to our functionaries and evaluators, including Chandana, Kirti, Ramya, Derick, and all of our role holders, for their thoughtful feedback and support in helping our speakers and meeting grow.

Our roots give us a sense of belonging, and our wings give us the courage to keep growing.

See you at our next meeting for our elections!