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From: Alan (to Marcos)
Date: 09 Oct 2011
Time: 06:22:47 -0500
Remote Name: 95.144.71.224
Hi Marcos, Thank you for your generous comments. Having entered the world of public speaking more than 10 years ago, such a role has now become firmly incorporated within my self-image. I no longer have any disempowering beliefs (or thoughts) about addressing an audience. I readily accept every invitation that I receive (as well as the opportunities that I proactively create) without giving any consideration to my past history of stuttering. When we venture into uncharted waters, we will almost certainly experience a degree of apprehension or self-doubt. It's a natural reaction for anyone who steps outside their comfort zone. We should recognise that such feelings are NOT confined to those who stutter. Placing myself in challenging speaking situations did feel uncomfortable, at first, but I became progressively more comfortable as I repeated them again and again. I believe that our ability to tolerate short periods of discomfort is the key to change. If we are willing to take risks, we can bring about a significant transformation in our attitude and self-image. I fully recognise the importance of role models in any walk of life. Witnessing that man talking about his public speaking successes (in 2000) made me realise (for the first time in my life) that such activities need not lie outside the scope of someone who stutters. Marcos,I am most grateful to you for responding ro my paper. I hope things are well with you in New Jersey. Kindest regards Alan