In the past week, I have learned to abandon the ego. I had no choice. My 47th speech left me leaving the room in tears. I let emotions get the better of me and my confidence shattered. The words stuck in my throat. I stuttered, babbled, and could not appropriately articulate my thoughts. What a completely new experience; I was baffled, embarrassed, and left half-way during the meeting, unable to face the club. When I really think about it, I realize that my emotions with regards to another individual got the better of me. I am a seasoned Toastmaster, but I also have a heart that can feel loss and pain. In the future, I will honour my desire to say NO or NOT NOW if I cannot give my absolute best with strength and conviction. Next week, I will be climbing back on the horse and reclaiming my voice.