Hi Guys,
This is a short educational session i did for my company as part of our outreach program. This is something I formulated after doing public speaking for many years. I hope you can use some of these ideas to add value to your speaking whether be in a professional or social setting.
Please do let me know if you like the video and what other things you would like to learn. Here are a few more resources which I think are important if you want to speak better.
Here are some of my fav books on this topic. MUST reads.
Monday 30 May 2011
Sunday 29 May 2011
District 80 Toastmasters International Speech Contest Experience Part 1
6.30 am. The time of the contest was creeping up on me. Twas time for my epic journey towards the Singapore Recreation Club.
My mother was trying to get a Taxi booking for me because she thought it would be better if I did not drive to the contest venue. After several minutes I finally got the booking through my Iphone. The confirmation note said 7-9 mins for the taxi to arrive below my apartment.
Having no sleep for 30 hours had put me in a hyper active zone. My brain was busy with a Buzz. My mother helped me carry my props (djembe) to the taxi.
But I sensed something was wrong when I got a quick glimpse of the taxi driver. His deeply furrowed foreheard, the tight muscles around his eyes and his thin purse lips. His aura screamed,"I AM PISSED!"
A voice in my head. " Oh no... what a way to start the morning"
With my things loaded into the drunk, I bid my mother a temporary farewell and got into the warm TAXI that smelt like the the inside of an ash tray. Argh.
Beads of sweat began emerging from my forehead. I loosen my tie and gave the address of where I wanted to go. He, the disgruntled driver barked at me, "Where this place?" Gulp.
"Its near the raffles city shopping centre one uncle. err... near the padang you know.."
I could have just raised my voice in retaliation but I told myself this was happening for me to cultivate my patience. I do my best to be a practitioner of what I say. I reminded myself that I must do something to pour some sweet mirth back into this frail looking, wrinkled unhappy man.
I made some small talk and remained as cordial as possible to improve his mood. The temperature was still below my expectations. Before I opened my mouth to tell the uncle to "make the air con stronger" I looked at the air conditioning controls. It was all set to the lowest point with the fan speed at its highest. Even if I asked him to make it colder there was nothing he could have done...
I keep grounding myself back to the idea that at the Soul level there is no separations. And you know surprisingly he did become nicer to me. Oh Oh oh ... I forgot to tell you why he was upset in the first place. I got my first clue when he said,"your number is 00000000 is it? " to which before I could reply he continued, "Call you 5 times never pick up." Ah.... a moment of truth. He was frustrated because he had been waiting for me and was unable to reach me.
Disappointments.
Drives all of us crazy doesn't it ?
I did try to glance through my speech structure a few times. Nervous ? Oh no. not at all..
I was delirious. To think that I was still modifying my speech till the 5.50am. Madness. I was hearing the flight of the Bumble Bee in my head.
Soon I parted with the taxi uncle and I even gave him a 2 dollar tip and I do think its because of what my father has advised me in the Past. Anger begets Anger and Love Beget Love. If other people want to be nasty let them be. You just continue doing the right things.
Yes Dad. You are right. Very right indeed. "Its in the mirror of society for which one reflects his own true nature. "- an original ramesh muthusamy quote. hahaa.
I walked into the awesomely homely and inviting Singapore Recreation Club....
TBC
My mother was trying to get a Taxi booking for me because she thought it would be better if I did not drive to the contest venue. After several minutes I finally got the booking through my Iphone. The confirmation note said 7-9 mins for the taxi to arrive below my apartment.
Having no sleep for 30 hours had put me in a hyper active zone. My brain was busy with a Buzz. My mother helped me carry my props (djembe) to the taxi.
But I sensed something was wrong when I got a quick glimpse of the taxi driver. His deeply furrowed foreheard, the tight muscles around his eyes and his thin purse lips. His aura screamed,"I AM PISSED!"
A voice in my head. " Oh no... what a way to start the morning"
With my things loaded into the drunk, I bid my mother a temporary farewell and got into the warm TAXI that smelt like the the inside of an ash tray. Argh.
Beads of sweat began emerging from my forehead. I loosen my tie and gave the address of where I wanted to go. He, the disgruntled driver barked at me, "Where this place?" Gulp.
"Its near the raffles city shopping centre one uncle. err... near the padang you know.."
I could have just raised my voice in retaliation but I told myself this was happening for me to cultivate my patience. I do my best to be a practitioner of what I say. I reminded myself that I must do something to pour some sweet mirth back into this frail looking, wrinkled unhappy man.
I made some small talk and remained as cordial as possible to improve his mood. The temperature was still below my expectations. Before I opened my mouth to tell the uncle to "make the air con stronger" I looked at the air conditioning controls. It was all set to the lowest point with the fan speed at its highest. Even if I asked him to make it colder there was nothing he could have done...
I keep grounding myself back to the idea that at the Soul level there is no separations. And you know surprisingly he did become nicer to me. Oh Oh oh ... I forgot to tell you why he was upset in the first place. I got my first clue when he said,"your number is 00000000 is it? " to which before I could reply he continued, "Call you 5 times never pick up." Ah.... a moment of truth. He was frustrated because he had been waiting for me and was unable to reach me.
Disappointments.
Drives all of us crazy doesn't it ?
I did try to glance through my speech structure a few times. Nervous ? Oh no. not at all..
I was delirious. To think that I was still modifying my speech till the 5.50am. Madness. I was hearing the flight of the Bumble Bee in my head.
Soon I parted with the taxi uncle and I even gave him a 2 dollar tip and I do think its because of what my father has advised me in the Past. Anger begets Anger and Love Beget Love. If other people want to be nasty let them be. You just continue doing the right things.
Yes Dad. You are right. Very right indeed. "Its in the mirror of society for which one reflects his own true nature. "- an original ramesh muthusamy quote. hahaa.
I walked into the awesomely homely and inviting Singapore Recreation Club....
TBC
Saturday 28 May 2011
5 more Hours to the DISTRICT contest.
Time 3.03am. Strong fan aimed at my face.. Heart pounding. Dryness in eyes.
My dear friend Yahssir is slipping in and out and consciousness. I don't blame the ol chap.
Its been a gruelling 8 hours where the he heard same lines from me over and over again.
"Bro... which one you think is better? "
Yahssir, drifts off into his artistic brain and returns with an ambiguous smirk and a unstated nod. I proceed to make the edit. The this repeats.
My dear friend Yahssir is slipping in and out and consciousness. I don't blame the ol chap.
Its been a gruelling 8 hours where the he heard same lines from me over and over again.
"Bro... which one you think is better? "
Yahssir, drifts off into his artistic brain and returns with an ambiguous smirk and a unstated nod. I proceed to make the edit. The this repeats.
Preparing for a Speech Contest is no easy thing. The most agnosing part is the self doubt. Will it work ? Should I say it this way ? Emmm Wait... How about this story or this literary device to punch my message thru? I salute every person out there who has taken the challenge of taking part in a speech contest.
I do plan to share some ideas on crafting a good speech in future posts.. If you need to know anything in specific pls message me.
I do plan to share some ideas on crafting a good speech in future posts.. If you need to know anything in specific pls message me.
Its' almost been over 5 years since I was at the District platform. The butterflies in my stomach themselves have smaller butterflies fluttering nervously inside of them.
7 mins. That's it. Make it or break it.
Every pause. Facial Expressions, Vocal variation and Message points. Everything is sliced into nano bits to test for message worthiness. In the past I used to say that the fastest way to learn how to speak well is to put yourself thru speech contests. Its been over 13 years of Toastmastering for me and now I say, "The fastest way for you to become Insane is to keep taking part in contests. hahahaha" See I am laughing at my own lame comments. But no. Honestly, taking part in contests really helps a person to gain more clarity in crafting a precise speech.
Ok I gotta get back to my rehearsal. BTW Barcelona just scored a goal against Man U. I know this because Yahssir just let out a groan.
Monday 23 May 2011
To reach Excellence there must be Intense Practice.
I have known Sara since I was 13 years old. We used to be from the same marching band. I played the trombone and Sara was the King of Drums. Over the years I have been awed by Sara. In person he is a calm and gentle spirit but the moment you give him two drum sticks, Musical Madness happens.
Drop check roll roll roll
Watch SARA in his awesome performance below.
Sara is a role model for me because of a few things. He is courageous and committed. A lot of us worry endlessly and might I add needlessly agnonising over job security and future growth prospects. Many of us would find an Organisation to work for or with and call it a day but is not how Sara is.
Untrodden path by an Uncommon man. That is Sara. He commited himself to all things musical. He left the comfort and security of Singapore to pursue a career in music in India. Sara exhibited what it means to get out of the comfort zone and take risks. Today that decision made has paid off for him. He runs a successful sound production company which also trains people on how to use software like Logic Studio. In fact he is the one who selflessly taught me how to use Logic studio. He has a very easy to understand methodology for composing music. He is also very passionate and patient when it comes to teaching.
I would like to honour my pal of many years , Sara, for being able to accomplish all these successes through his courage and unwavering commitment.
Ask yourself
1 Have have become too safe in life?
2. Am I in my comfort zone ?
3. What new goals could I set in my life to grow as a person?
For those of you who are striving for excellence in your professional and personal life. Here is a real testimonial.
Devote yourself to your passion and no matter how doubtful you may get in the arduous process, stay focused and ALWAYS remind yourself countlessly that to reach the pinnacle, YOU must be FOCUSED.
Pain is only for a while.
Excellence is for a lifetime!
Ask yourself
1 Have have become too safe in life?
2. Am I in my comfort zone ?
3. What new goals could I set in my life to grow as a person?
For those of you who are striving for excellence in your professional and personal life. Here is a real testimonial.
Devote yourself to your passion and no matter how doubtful you may get in the arduous process, stay focused and ALWAYS remind yourself countlessly that to reach the pinnacle, YOU must be FOCUSED.
Pain is only for a while.
Excellence is for a lifetime!
Drop check roll roll roll
Watch SARA in his awesome performance below.
If you think this deserves a round of applause please show it by liking his vid and leave some encouragement if possible. Ty
Goodness begets Goodness.
Spread the love everyone!
Goodness begets Goodness.
Spread the love everyone!
Saturday 21 May 2011
The Nitin Sawhney and Frederick Kwan Adventure Part 1
Earlier this week I received an sms from my really awesome buddy, Haiz,which read, "Babe, friday evening u free?" To which my reply, "most prolly" and
within seconds my white iphone vibrated with "ok. i book you k" and i replied "ok"
within seconds my white iphone vibrated with "ok. i book you k" and i replied "ok"
A day later I got another interesting sms from Haiz, "Babe tis fri super on! " I chuckled a little inside. I have never heard of someone confirming an appointment as "Super On" It was then when I knew, Haiz had planned for some really important.
Time passes, Friday arrives.
The 20th of May ( Friday's date) was a fantastic day to begin with. I had lunch with one of my colleagues and went back to my home office to work. Then I got a what'sapp message from Fred (Haiz, Fred and I attend Nanyang junior college for 2 fantastic years in the same class 2CT6). It was the picture of his new born angelic looking baby boy.
I have known Fred for almost 14 years now. We used to be study mates for Geography ( That explains our "phenomenal" grades) We also did Tap dancing classes together (until the dance school closed down) Fred, Haiz and I also were in the Toastmasters together. He served as an Area Governor as well. In short, Fred has been a significant part of my life. As I type this it gives me a chance to reminisce the golden days of our young selfs.
His wife Sarina, had just delivered Mr.D at 1 pm.
I was exhilarated.
I called Fred chatted gleefully about this momentous occasion in his life. Soon, Haiz called me to also resonate with the joy of the good news. Haiz and I made plans to get a huge congratulatory balloon and visit his first born son.
I was exhilarated.
I called Fred chatted gleefully about this momentous occasion in his life. Soon, Haiz called me to also resonate with the joy of the good news. Haiz and I made plans to get a huge congratulatory balloon and visit his first born son.
H and I arrived at Thompson Medical Centre at about 5.30pm and had a wonderful time soaking in the great energy that was present in the room. Sarina looked so peaceful whilst resting on the cosy medical bed. They had the company of their close family members to join her in the quiet celebrations. Bundled up and sleeping was Mr.D.
I could not believe it. Here he was.
This beautiful, peaceful miracle of God.
This blessing.
This song of the soul in a human form. Mr.D.
Fred is now Dad.
Congrats Fred.
I know your son is gifted to have you and Sarina as his parents. I can imagine amazing experiences you will create for this child to evolve into a confident and jubilant boy.
This beautiful, peaceful miracle of God.
This blessing.
This song of the soul in a human form. Mr.D.
Fred is now Dad.
Congrats Fred.
I know your son is gifted to have you and Sarina as his parents. I can imagine amazing experiences you will create for this child to evolve into a confident and jubilant boy.
Haiz was busy clicking away my with my DSLR to capture this wonderful time we were all sharing. After our sweet moments with Fred, Sarina and Mr D (Fred pls do consider all the other names i suggested. Mario, Mariachi and Mamma Mia! Trust me bro. It works. Will keep you entertained for years to come.) Time was ticking. H and I said our goodbyes and fled speedily to the adventure he had planned
but we soon encountered an unexpected monster.
The heavy peak hour traffic. (So much for ERP and COE systems)
My stomach was also starting to protest in hunger.
Tensions were rising.
... to be continued
Thursday 19 May 2011
Teaching and Teachers.
Today, I got the blessed chance to do a 90 minutes talk to the joyful Students of St. Patrick's School.
The Topic was "How to present effectively"
Going back to St. Pat's certainly brought back many memories for me. I was also very happy to meet an old pal, Joseph who is a Head of Department in the school. Jo is a phenomenal educator and an awesome human being bursting with Heart and emblazoned with Smiles.
Honestly, doing a skills training an audience of a 100 students who are 7th Graders (Sec 1) was a stretch for me.
Young people are always buzzing with energy and to have them sit cross legged in the hall was a challenge for them as well.
Some of them got distracted and start chatting with their buddies. As I was attempting to present the ideas on how to make better presentations, I had to pause many times to do some intervention them back to focus on the content. Nonetheless, it was a great experience for me. After the session, I spent sometime reflecting and would like to share them with you, especially for if you are in the field of TEACHING.
In my early days working with people , I learnt that there is no such thing as "difficult students" there are only students with different needs. To be able to work with them the teacher/trainer/facilitator needs to cultivate tremendous amount of patience.
Every time I work with school students, silently my admiration for teachers swells in my heart. A certain inexplicable and moving respect for them emanates from the core of my being. In my many years of training and teaching, I have met a few hundred teachers and this my valiant attempt of complying a list of teacher archetypes. If you are a Teacher, which archetype calls out to you the most?
Archetypes of Teachers according to Ramesh Muthusamy
1. The Loving Teacher
Always ready with a warm hug and a listening ear. This teacher doesn't really care if you fail your subjects. What they are keen in is how you are doing as a person. They are more interested in your future development and envision a brighter tommorow for their pupils. These teachers, often build close bonds with their students and coming to work is a usually a Joy for them. These teachers are focused largely on building their students by making them feel valued and loved. They tend to share moral values and instill a certain steadfastness as to how they should live their lives in general.
2. The "Let's Aim for the Stars!" Teacher
These teachers are fundamentally drawn into the idea of helping students by increasing their competencies in their subjects. They toil long hours thinking of the best type of training to give their pupils to be able to ace their exams. Full of enthusiasm when the word EXAM is mentioned. They never show any signs of tiredness when it comes to doing another question paper with their students and thereafter eagerly going through the strategies on how to tackle the questions. They tend to build their students by building their confidence being able to answer the difficult questions within the subjects they teach. They imbuse the love of the subject within the students.
3. The "Mechanical" Teacher
Functionality is their mantra. They just want to get the job over and done with. They tend to use the time in a class either droning on about something the students cannot see the point in listening to or just occupying the time by painfully dragging their students through the questions. No doubt they could be gifted in the subject they are "attempting" to teach but in my opinion some of them really need to relook at their career choice. Working with people, especially Young people is a sacred task. I often wonder in my head when I see such teachers as to what do they really care about? Why do they do this particular field of work. Sometimes I feel this urge to reach into their heart and dip in a pot of gooey honey and bake in the sunshine of love. I am sure its' within every person to be able to care but its just that for some people this type of behaviour is new and unfamiliar.
4. The "Jaded" Teacher
A teacher who fails to constantly nourish themselves will become like stale bread. Dry and Hard to reach. I have encountered some of these teachers who often have a sour face every where they go. The words that leave their mouth leaves painful or discomforting memories for their colleagues and students. Personally, I do get saddened by teachers who seem to have lost their inspiration. At times as I interact with them I have learnt that it sometimes its the horrid leadership they have been under which has made them sick with "I-don't-care-ritis". Isn't that what you would do as well? If you are subjected to an uncaring and ineffective atmosphere? Disengagement, Disenchantment and Disgust. Being jaded is similar to a copper pipe left outside to endure the harsh elements of nature. It does oxidise and become tarnished. Recovery is simple. All this pipe needs is a concerned hand that gently cleans away the tarnish. What these teachers need is an invigourating leader who is able to make a personal connection with them in a gentle and consistent manner.
5. The Wise Teacher
White hair, wrinkles, calmness and a soft voice captures the essence of the Wise Teacher. You know you a Wise teacher when you normally like to listen to people more than speak. You allow people to talk as long as they need to and avoid dispensing advising unless asked. You have a belief that the person carrying the problem also has the capability to solve it so you a practioner of restraint. Wise teachers work quietly without much fanfare and often have a subdued personality. They are also people who respect others including the naughtier students because they know that the role of an educator is to help nurture rather than to blame or judge them.
Here is a something I composed for all the wonderful teachers out there in the world there.
Teacher's Reminder
by Ramesh Muthusamy (An Ode to Hamimah)
To Teach is to Etch.
On Gold slates of Possibilities
Teaching is Sacred Work.
Why oh why ?
amongst us were you the one
Called by our Great Universe?
To Teach
Is to prepare
For Evolution awaits,
Your Consciousness swiftly shifting.
Along the way of this long way
You may miss the purpose of your
Call.
Like words you write on the board to remind
Bring your homework on Monday
Today I Remind.
and I promise
You will be touched inside
That is if you are open and allow yourself to grow.
Have Mirth in your Stride for this work of Teaching
I promise
Is Challenging.
When the weather is disagreeing
When the fan in the class drones
When your head throbs
Your stomach scrapes from inside
Your voice is strained
Your patience abandons you
I remind you of the Oath you have taken.
To Love. Always. To teach. With Heart. Always.
This is
Not for the faint of heart and the faithless.
Young people are like Tofu.
They must be handled with the utmost of care.
Else they will break apart.
Remind yourself to the Godlikeness in every Child.
For they need nurturing not condemnation.
Remind yourself to watch your words.
Be frugal in your criticism and lavish in your messages of
Hope
People are bundles of lights. All on a Journey. Including yourself.
Sometimes you teach them at others they will be your Teachers. Some kind, others Severe.
Remind yourself to Serve them and yourself.
You too are a light. On your Journey.
Honour your Trials and Tribulations.
In that you will seek profound wisdom
And till the day you are no more you
must
must
must
with Love
and Patience Serve
Teacher Oh BeautyBound Teacher!
I call on you.
From All Quarters of the Myseterious and Romantic Universe.
Imagine as all points of this celestial page pulls towards each other and into your Heart.
Remind yourself
There is magnificence and magic in each of them.
Seek it. Honour It and Bow before for your Calling.
Tis the highest in all things Sacred and that is
to Teach
T
The Topic was "How to present effectively"
Going back to St. Pat's certainly brought back many memories for me. I was also very happy to meet an old pal, Joseph who is a Head of Department in the school. Jo is a phenomenal educator and an awesome human being bursting with Heart and emblazoned with Smiles.
Honestly, doing a skills training an audience of a 100 students who are 7th Graders (Sec 1) was a stretch for me.
Young people are always buzzing with energy and to have them sit cross legged in the hall was a challenge for them as well.
Some of them got distracted and start chatting with their buddies. As I was attempting to present the ideas on how to make better presentations, I had to pause many times to do some intervention them back to focus on the content. Nonetheless, it was a great experience for me. After the session, I spent sometime reflecting and would like to share them with you, especially for if you are in the field of TEACHING.
In my early days working with people , I learnt that there is no such thing as "difficult students" there are only students with different needs. To be able to work with them the teacher/trainer/facilitator needs to cultivate tremendous amount of patience.
Every time I work with school students, silently my admiration for teachers swells in my heart. A certain inexplicable and moving respect for them emanates from the core of my being. In my many years of training and teaching, I have met a few hundred teachers and this my valiant attempt of complying a list of teacher archetypes. If you are a Teacher, which archetype calls out to you the most?
Archetypes of Teachers according to Ramesh Muthusamy
1. The Loving Teacher
Always ready with a warm hug and a listening ear. This teacher doesn't really care if you fail your subjects. What they are keen in is how you are doing as a person. They are more interested in your future development and envision a brighter tommorow for their pupils. These teachers, often build close bonds with their students and coming to work is a usually a Joy for them. These teachers are focused largely on building their students by making them feel valued and loved. They tend to share moral values and instill a certain steadfastness as to how they should live their lives in general.
2. The "Let's Aim for the Stars!" Teacher
These teachers are fundamentally drawn into the idea of helping students by increasing their competencies in their subjects. They toil long hours thinking of the best type of training to give their pupils to be able to ace their exams. Full of enthusiasm when the word EXAM is mentioned. They never show any signs of tiredness when it comes to doing another question paper with their students and thereafter eagerly going through the strategies on how to tackle the questions. They tend to build their students by building their confidence being able to answer the difficult questions within the subjects they teach. They imbuse the love of the subject within the students.
3. The "Mechanical" Teacher
Functionality is their mantra. They just want to get the job over and done with. They tend to use the time in a class either droning on about something the students cannot see the point in listening to or just occupying the time by painfully dragging their students through the questions. No doubt they could be gifted in the subject they are "attempting" to teach but in my opinion some of them really need to relook at their career choice. Working with people, especially Young people is a sacred task. I often wonder in my head when I see such teachers as to what do they really care about? Why do they do this particular field of work. Sometimes I feel this urge to reach into their heart and dip in a pot of gooey honey and bake in the sunshine of love. I am sure its' within every person to be able to care but its just that for some people this type of behaviour is new and unfamiliar.
4. The "Jaded" Teacher
A teacher who fails to constantly nourish themselves will become like stale bread. Dry and Hard to reach. I have encountered some of these teachers who often have a sour face every where they go. The words that leave their mouth leaves painful or discomforting memories for their colleagues and students. Personally, I do get saddened by teachers who seem to have lost their inspiration. At times as I interact with them I have learnt that it sometimes its the horrid leadership they have been under which has made them sick with "I-don't-care-ritis". Isn't that what you would do as well? If you are subjected to an uncaring and ineffective atmosphere? Disengagement, Disenchantment and Disgust. Being jaded is similar to a copper pipe left outside to endure the harsh elements of nature. It does oxidise and become tarnished. Recovery is simple. All this pipe needs is a concerned hand that gently cleans away the tarnish. What these teachers need is an invigourating leader who is able to make a personal connection with them in a gentle and consistent manner.
5. The Wise Teacher
White hair, wrinkles, calmness and a soft voice captures the essence of the Wise Teacher. You know you a Wise teacher when you normally like to listen to people more than speak. You allow people to talk as long as they need to and avoid dispensing advising unless asked. You have a belief that the person carrying the problem also has the capability to solve it so you a practioner of restraint. Wise teachers work quietly without much fanfare and often have a subdued personality. They are also people who respect others including the naughtier students because they know that the role of an educator is to help nurture rather than to blame or judge them.
Here is a something I composed for all the wonderful teachers out there in the world there.
Teacher's Reminder
by Ramesh Muthusamy (An Ode to Hamimah)
To Teach is to Etch.
On Gold slates of Possibilities
Teaching is Sacred Work.
Why oh why ?
amongst us were you the one
Called by our Great Universe?
To Teach
Is to prepare
For Evolution awaits,
Your Consciousness swiftly shifting.
Along the way of this long way
You may miss the purpose of your
Call.
Like words you write on the board to remind
Bring your homework on Monday
Today I Remind.
and I promise
You will be touched inside
That is if you are open and allow yourself to grow.
Have Mirth in your Stride for this work of Teaching
I promise
Is Challenging.
When the weather is disagreeing
When the fan in the class drones
When your head throbs
Your stomach scrapes from inside
Your voice is strained
Your patience abandons you
I remind you of the Oath you have taken.
To Love. Always. To teach. With Heart. Always.
This is
Not for the faint of heart and the faithless.
Young people are like Tofu.
They must be handled with the utmost of care.
Else they will break apart.
Remind yourself to the Godlikeness in every Child.
For they need nurturing not condemnation.
Remind yourself to watch your words.
Be frugal in your criticism and lavish in your messages of
Hope
People are bundles of lights. All on a Journey. Including yourself.
Sometimes you teach them at others they will be your Teachers. Some kind, others Severe.
Remind yourself to Serve them and yourself.
You too are a light. On your Journey.
Honour your Trials and Tribulations.
In that you will seek profound wisdom
And till the day you are no more you
must
must
must
with Love
and Patience Serve
Teacher Oh BeautyBound Teacher!
I call on you.
From All Quarters of the Myseterious and Romantic Universe.
Imagine as all points of this celestial page pulls towards each other and into your Heart.
Remind yourself
There is magnificence and magic in each of them.
Seek it. Honour It and Bow before for your Calling.
Tis the highest in all things Sacred and that is
to Teach
T
Teaching and Teachers.
Today, I got the blessed chance to do a 90 minutes talk to the joyful Students of St. Patrick's School.
The Topic was "How to present effectively"
Going back to St. Pat's certainly brought back many memories for me. I was also very happy to meet an old pal, Joseph who is a Head of Department in the school. Jo is a phenomenal educator and an awesome human being bursting with Heart and emblazoned with Smiles.
Honestly, doing a skills training an audience of a 100 students who are 7th Graders (Sec 1) was a stretch for me.
Young people are always buzzing with energy and to have them sit cross legged in the hall was a challenge for them as well.
Some of them got distracted and start chatting with their buddies. As I was attempting to present the ideas on how to make better presentations, I had to pause many times to do some intervention them back to focus on the content. Nonetheless, it was a great experience for me. After the session, I spent sometime reflecting and would like to share them with you, especially for if you are in the field of TEACHING.
In my early days working with people , I learnt that there is no such thing as "difficult students" there are only students with different needs. To be able to work with them the teacher/trainer/facilitator needs to cultivate tremendous amount of patience.
Every time I work with school students, silently my admiration for teachers swells in my heart. A certain inexplicable and moving respect for them emanates from the core of my being. In my many years of training and teaching, I have met a few hundred teachers and this my valiant attempt of complying a list of teacher archetypes. If you are a Teacher, which archetype calls out to you the most?
Archetypes of Teachers according to Ramesh Muthusamy
1. The Loving Teacher
Always ready with a warm hug and a listening ear. This teacher doesn't really care if you fail your subjects. What they are keen in is how you are doing as a person. They are more interested in your future development and envision a brighter tommorow for their pupils. These teachers, often build close bonds with their students and coming to work is a usually a Joy for them. These teachers are focused largely on building their students by making them feel valued and loved. They tend to share moral values and instill a certain steadfastness as to how they should live their lives in general.
2. The "Let's Aim for the Stars!" Teacher
These teachers are fundamentally drawn into the idea of helping students by increasing their competencies in their subjects. They toil long hours thinking of the best type of training to give their pupils to be able to ace their exams. Full of enthusiasm when the word EXAM is mentioned. They never show any signs of tiredness when it comes to doing another question paper with their students and thereafter eagerly going through the strategies on how to tackle the questions. They tend to build their students by building their confidence being able to answer the difficult questions within the subjects they teach. They imbuse the love of the subject within the students.
3. The "Mechanical" Teacher
Functionality is their mantra. They just want to get the job over and done with. They tend to use the time in a class either droning on about something the students cannot see the point in listening to or just occupying the time by painfully dragging their students through the questions. No doubt they could be gifted in the subject they are "attempting" to teach but in my opinion some of them really need to relook at their career choice. Working with people, especially Young people is a sacred task. I often wonder in my head when I see such teachers as to what do they really care about? Why do they do this particular field of work. Sometimes I feel this urge to reach into their heart and dip in a pot of gooey honey and bake in the sunshine of love. I am sure its' within every person to be able to care but its just that for some people this type of behaviour is new and unfamiliar.
4. The "Jaded" Teacher
A teacher who fails to constantly nourish themselves will become like stale bread. Dry and Hard to reach. I have encountered some of these teachers who often have a sour face every where they go. The words that leave their mouth leaves painful or discomforting memories for their colleagues and students. Personally, I do get saddened by teachers who seem to have lost their inspiration. At times as I interact with them I have learnt that it sometimes its the horrid leadership they have been under which has made them sick with "I-don't-care-ritis". Isn't that what you would do as well? If you are subjected to an uncaring and ineffective atmosphere? Disengagement, Disenchantment and Disgust. Being jaded is similar to a copper pipe left outside to endure the harsh elements of nature. It does oxidise and become tarnished. Recovery is simple. All this pipe needs is a concerned hand that gently cleans away the tarnish. What these teachers need is an invigourating leader who is able to make a personal connection with them in a gentle and consistent manner.
5. The Wise Teacher
White hair, wrinkles, calmness and a soft voice captures the essence of the Wise Teacher. You know you a Wise teacher when you normally like to listen to people more than speak. You allow people to talk as long as they need to and avoid dispensing advising unless asked. You have a belief that the person carrying the problem also has the capability to solve it so you a practioner of restraint. Wise teachers work quietly without much fanfare and often have a subdued personality. They are also people who respect others including the naughtier students because they know that the role of an educator is to help nurture rather than to blame or judge them.
Here is a something I composed for all the wonderful teachers out there in the world there.
Teacher's Reminder
by Ramesh Muthusamy (An Ode to Hamimah)
To Teach is to Etch.
On Gold slates of Possibilities
Teaching is Sacred Work.
Why oh why ?
amongst us were you the one
Called by our Great Universe?
To Teach
Is to prepare
For Evolution awaits,
Your Consciousness swiftly shifting.
Along the way of this long way
You may miss the purpose of your
Call.
Like words you write on the board to remind
Bring your homework on Monday
Today I Remind.
and I promise
You will be touched inside
That is if you are open and allow yourself to grow.
Have Mirth in your Stride for this work of Teaching
I promise
Is Challenging.
When the weather is disagreeing
When the fan in the class drones
When your head throbs
Your stomach scrapes from inside
Your voice is strained
Your patience abandons you
I remind you of the Oath you have taken.
To Love. Always. To teach. With Heart. Always.
This is
Not for the faint of heart and the faithless.
Young people are like Tofu.
They must be handled with the utmost of care.
Else they will break apart.
Remind yourself to the Godlikeness in every Child.
For they need nurturing not condemnation.
Remind yourself to watch your words.
Be frugal in your criticism and lavish in your messages of
Hope
People are bundles of lights. All on a Journey. Including yourself.
Sometimes you teach them at others they will be your Teachers. Some kind, others Severe.
Remind yourself to Serve them and yourself.
You too are a light. On your Journey.
Honour your Trials and Tribulations.
In that you will seek profound wisdom
And till the day you are no more you
must
must
must
with Love
and Patience Serve
Teacher Oh BeautyBound Teacher!
I call on you.
From All Quarters of the Myseterious and Romantic Universe.
Imagine as all points of this celestial page pulls towards each other and into your Heart.
Remind yourself
There is magnificence and magic in each of them.
Seek it. Honour It and Bow before for your Calling.
Tis the highest in all things Sacred and that is
to Teach
T
The Topic was "How to present effectively"
Going back to St. Pat's certainly brought back many memories for me. I was also very happy to meet an old pal, Joseph who is a Head of Department in the school. Jo is a phenomenal educator and an awesome human being bursting with Heart and emblazoned with Smiles.
Honestly, doing a skills training an audience of a 100 students who are 7th Graders (Sec 1) was a stretch for me.
Young people are always buzzing with energy and to have them sit cross legged in the hall was a challenge for them as well.
Some of them got distracted and start chatting with their buddies. As I was attempting to present the ideas on how to make better presentations, I had to pause many times to do some intervention them back to focus on the content. Nonetheless, it was a great experience for me. After the session, I spent sometime reflecting and would like to share them with you, especially for if you are in the field of TEACHING.
In my early days working with people , I learnt that there is no such thing as "difficult students" there are only students with different needs. To be able to work with them the teacher/trainer/facilitator needs to cultivate tremendous amount of patience.
Every time I work with school students, silently my admiration for teachers swells in my heart. A certain inexplicable and moving respect for them emanates from the core of my being. In my many years of training and teaching, I have met a few hundred teachers and this my valiant attempt of complying a list of teacher archetypes. If you are a Teacher, which archetype calls out to you the most?
Archetypes of Teachers according to Ramesh Muthusamy
1. The Loving Teacher
Always ready with a warm hug and a listening ear. This teacher doesn't really care if you fail your subjects. What they are keen in is how you are doing as a person. They are more interested in your future development and envision a brighter tommorow for their pupils. These teachers, often build close bonds with their students and coming to work is a usually a Joy for them. These teachers are focused largely on building their students by making them feel valued and loved. They tend to share moral values and instill a certain steadfastness as to how they should live their lives in general.
2. The "Let's Aim for the Stars!" Teacher
These teachers are fundamentally drawn into the idea of helping students by increasing their competencies in their subjects. They toil long hours thinking of the best type of training to give their pupils to be able to ace their exams. Full of enthusiasm when the word EXAM is mentioned. They never show any signs of tiredness when it comes to doing another question paper with their students and thereafter eagerly going through the strategies on how to tackle the questions. They tend to build their students by building their confidence being able to answer the difficult questions within the subjects they teach. They imbuse the love of the subject within the students.
3. The "Mechanical" Teacher
Functionality is their mantra. They just want to get the job over and done with. They tend to use the time in a class either droning on about something the students cannot see the point in listening to or just occupying the time by painfully dragging their students through the questions. No doubt they could be gifted in the subject they are "attempting" to teach but in my opinion some of them really need to relook at their career choice. Working with people, especially Young people is a sacred task. I often wonder in my head when I see such teachers as to what do they really care about? Why do they do this particular field of work. Sometimes I feel this urge to reach into their heart and dip in a pot of gooey honey and bake in the sunshine of love. I am sure its' within every person to be able to care but its just that for some people this type of behaviour is new and unfamiliar.
4. The "Jaded" Teacher
A teacher who fails to constantly nourish themselves will become like stale bread. Dry and Hard to reach. I have encountered some of these teachers who often have a sour face every where they go. The words that leave their mouth leaves painful or discomforting memories for their colleagues and students. Personally, I do get saddened by teachers who seem to have lost their inspiration. At times as I interact with them I have learnt that it sometimes its the horrid leadership they have been under which has made them sick with "I-don't-care-ritis". Isn't that what you would do as well? If you are subjected to an uncaring and ineffective atmosphere? Disengagement, Disenchantment and Disgust. Being jaded is similar to a copper pipe left outside to endure the harsh elements of nature. It does oxidise and become tarnished. Recovery is simple. All this pipe needs is a concerned hand that gently cleans away the tarnish. What these teachers need is an invigourating leader who is able to make a personal connection with them in a gentle and consistent manner.
5. The Wise Teacher
White hair, wrinkles, calmness and a soft voice captures the essence of the Wise Teacher. You know you a Wise teacher when you normally like to listen to people more than speak. You allow people to talk as long as they need to and avoid dispensing advising unless asked. You have a belief that the person carrying the problem also has the capability to solve it so you a practioner of restraint. Wise teachers work quietly without much fanfare and often have a subdued personality. They are also people who respect others including the naughtier students because they know that the role of an educator is to help nurture rather than to blame or judge them.
Here is a something I composed for all the wonderful teachers out there in the world there.
Teacher's Reminder
by Ramesh Muthusamy (An Ode to Hamimah)
To Teach is to Etch.
On Gold slates of Possibilities
Teaching is Sacred Work.
Why oh why ?
amongst us were you the one
Called by our Great Universe?
To Teach
Is to prepare
For Evolution awaits,
Your Consciousness swiftly shifting.
Along the way of this long way
You may miss the purpose of your
Call.
Like words you write on the board to remind
Bring your homework on Monday
Today I Remind.
and I promise
You will be touched inside
That is if you are open and allow yourself to grow.
Have Mirth in your Stride for this work of Teaching
I promise
Is Challenging.
When the weather is disagreeing
When the fan in the class drones
When your head throbs
Your stomach scrapes from inside
Your voice is strained
Your patience abandons you
I remind you of the Oath you have taken.
To Love. Always. To teach. With Heart. Always.
This is
Not for the faint of heart and the faithless.
Young people are like Tofu.
They must be handled with the utmost of care.
Else they will break apart.
Remind yourself to the Godlikeness in every Child.
For they need nurturing not condemnation.
Remind yourself to watch your words.
Be frugal in your criticism and lavish in your messages of
Hope
People are bundles of lights. All on a Journey. Including yourself.
Sometimes you teach them at others they will be your Teachers. Some kind, others Severe.
Remind yourself to Serve them and yourself.
You too are a light. On your Journey.
Honour your Trials and Tribulations.
In that you will seek profound wisdom
And till the day you are no more you
must
must
must
with Love
and Patience Serve
Teacher Oh BeautyBound Teacher!
I call on you.
From All Quarters of the Myseterious and Romantic Universe.
Imagine as all points of this celestial page pulls towards each other and into your Heart.
Remind yourself
There is magnificence and magic in each of them.
Seek it. Honour It and Bow before for your Calling.
Tis the highest in all things Sacred and that is
to Teach
T
Sunday 8 May 2011
Nothing is Permenant
All things material are to be used.
There is time to be born
Time to die.
Such is the passage we have chosen.
Open your heart.
Breathe Well and Choose to age
And Learn
For Intelligence we can learn
Wisdom we must earn.
There is time to be born
Time to die.
Such is the passage we have chosen.
Open your heart.
Breathe Well and Choose to age
And Learn
For Intelligence we can learn
Wisdom we must earn.
Nothing is Permenant
All things material are to be used.
There is time to be born
Time to die.
Such is the passage we have chosen.
Open your heart.
Breathe Well and Choose to age
And Learn
For Intelligence we can learn
Wisdom we must earn.
There is time to be born
Time to die.
Such is the passage we have chosen.
Open your heart.
Breathe Well and Choose to age
And Learn
For Intelligence we can learn
Wisdom we must earn.
Toastmasters Singapore District 80 Division Z Contest
*I intially typed this out on my iphone as i was waiting for the results.
It's Called the "THANK YOU"
I have grown in this family called Toastmasters.
Since joining the movement since 2000 while still in serving my National Service I have prepared countless speeches and pushed my self to taking part in many contests at various levels.
After all these years i thought i would no longer be stressed if i were to ever take part in another contest but that is being as honest as saying our broadband speeds are really as fast as there are advertised.
Today after listening to all the speeches I am truly humbled and filled with awe. The night before I was still tweaking and editing and rewriting portions of my speech till 3 am in the morning. The next morning I was up by 7 rehearsing my body language and vocal inflections.
In the midst of this vigourous preparation I asked myself what is the point of all this pushing?
It was then I heard some inner wisdom.
In the past the winning a contest was all that matter but now
I truly enjoyed the craft and art of being a wordsmith.
I love the sound of the language, the power of its suggestions and the poetry in its silences.
I told myself that if I lost it must ONLY because my preparation efforts paled in comparison to the brilliance of my fellow contestants. And now that the contest is over I sit amazed how great every speech was in its own unique way. So much creativity and enthusiasm poured into the speeches. As a fellow speech maker I could instantly recognise how much thought must have gone into the speech structure, word selection and dramatic flairs.
From Kok Wah's near death experience because of his botak solider to
Learning to be a happier person from Yee Keong
to Adela's remarkable feat of being able to hide all six feet of her self in a paper less than half that
to the message that hit me the most of being a Doer by Seh Leng
I thank every one of my fellow contestants for their brilliant brilliant brilliant efforts. I have learnt so much all of you. In each of your speeches you highlighted a few techniques in speech making that has widen my horizons for the next level of competition.
This a family. A gathering of like minded people. I promise to do my best and deliver the best speech I can.
I would like to Thank my dear fellow contestants, my beloved Grassroots Toastmasters club members, contest officials,my cousin Punitha and her family (subra, divaker, rahulan) for coming to support, visitors, my friend Edison for coming down to encourage me, Jana for helping me the night before to bounce of ideas, Anu for her contributions towards some aspects of the speech. Pam and Leo for praying for me and all everyone out there who made it possible.
As I take a deep breath I am filled with lots of thanks.
After all these years I keep reminding myself not to be consumed by purely the winning but to focus more on the process of doing and learning.
This has been one of the highest standards I have witnessed at a Division Contest in all my life...
thank you for making this day so WONDERFUL!
Toastmasters Singapore District 80 Division Z Contest
*I intially typed this out on my iphone as i was waiting for the results.
It's Called the "THANK YOU"
I have grown in this family called Toastmasters.
Since joining the movement since 2000 while still in serving my National Service I have prepared countless speeches and pushed my self to taking part in many contests at various levels.
After all these years i thought i would no longer be stressed if i were to ever take part in another contest but that is being as honest as saying our broadband speeds are really as fast as there are advertised.
Today after listening to all the speeches I am truly humbled and filled with awe. The night before I was still tweaking and editing and rewriting portions of my speech till 3 am in the morning. The next morning I was up by 7 rehearsing my body language and vocal inflections.
In the midst of this vigourous preparation I asked myself what is the point of all this pushing?
It was then I heard some inner wisdom.
In the past the winning a contest was all that matter but now
I truly enjoyed the craft and art of being a wordsmith.
I love the sound of the language, the power of its suggestions and the poetry in its silences.
I told myself that if I lost it must ONLY because my preparation efforts paled in comparison to the brilliance of my fellow contestants. And now that the contest is over I sit amazed how great every speech was in its own unique way. So much creativity and enthusiasm poured into the speeches. As a fellow speech maker I could instantly recognise how much thought must have gone into the speech structure, word selection and dramatic flairs.
From Kok Wah's near death experience because of his botak solider to
Learning to be a happier person from Yee Keong
to Adela's remarkable feat of being able to hide all six feet of her self in a paper less than half that
to the message that hit me the most of being a Doer by Seh Leng
I thank every one of my fellow contestants for their brilliant brilliant brilliant efforts. I have learnt so much all of you. In each of your speeches you highlighted a few techniques in speech making that has widen my horizons for the next level of competition.
This a family. A gathering of like minded people. I promise to do my best and deliver the best speech I can.
I would like to Thank my dear fellow contestants, my beloved Grassroots Toastmasters club members, contest officials,my cousin Punitha and her family (subra, divaker, rahulan) for coming to support, visitors, my friend Edison for coming down to encourage me, Jana for helping me the night before to bounce of ideas, Anu for her contributions towards some aspects of the speech. Pam and Leo for praying for me and all everyone out there who made it possible.
As I take a deep breath I am filled with lots of thanks.
After all these years I keep reminding myself not to be consumed by purely the winning but to focus more on the process of doing and learning.
This has been one of the highest standards I have witnessed at a Division Contest in all my life...
thank you for making this day so WONDERFUL!
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