09/18/2026
On September 11th, I had the privilege of standing alongside my fellow Toastmaster and friend, Kevin Smithers, at a very meaningful Toastmasters meeting.
As we stood in front of the American flag — the same flag we honor with the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of every meeting — we paused to remember the events of September 11, 2001. It was a solemn and patriotic day, made even more meaningful by Kevin's stars-and-stripes tie, a visible reminder of our country's resilience, unity, and enduring spirit.
September 11th changed all of us. It was a difficult day in our nation's history, but it also reminded us of the importance of courage, service, community, and citizenship. At our meeting, we reflected not only on what was lost, but also on how we can honor that day by living with purpose, supporting one another, and striving to be better citizens.
Toastmasters has been an important part of my life since 2009. I currently belong to two Toastmasters clubs and am working toward becoming a Distinguished Toastmaster. Week after week, Toastmasters gives me the opportunity to grow through public speaking, leadership, mentorship, active listening, confidence-building, constructive feedback, meeting facilitation, community engagement, and personal development.
To me, being a Toastmaster is about more than giving speeches. It is about becoming a stronger communicator, a better leader, and a more engaged member of the community.
Patriotism is not only about honoring the flag — it is also about how we show up for others, how we serve, how we lead, and how we continue to strengthen the communities we are blessed to be part of.
Grateful for Toastmasters, grateful for friendship, and grateful for the opportunity to remember, reflect, and recommit to being a good citizen.
