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Due to the devastating earthquakes here in China, I can’t tell you how many people thought I was crazy for coming here at this time. Though I appreciate their concerns (especially my mom), but I would have missed an amazing experience and not met some amazing people.

Fortunately none of my fellow Toastmasters were affected directly by the quakes. Though everyone here is talking about it. I believe they even talked about donating conference proceeds to the victims. My fellow Toastmasters here have treated me with such energy and enthusiasm, it is humbling (do they know I’m just a normal guy?). It reminds me of being in the Middle East with David Brooks and looking at the Mountains and the sea thinking, “Wow, can you believe a 7 minutes speech brought us here?” (OK, 8 minutes, but still amazing). On these trips I feel very fortunate for all that I have.

The amazing part is that seeing other District Conferences around the world, they are so different and so much the same all at the same time. The speech contests were quite an experience to watch as well. They have some very passionate speakers here in China. Since they are a “provincial” District they can not compete in the International Speech Contest. They have been VERY constant winning awards each year in the “taped” speech contest. The second place winner, who was awarded at the conference, could not have been more excited and appreciative for his award ( I wished I had some of his energy, wow).

I did a Champion’s EDGE coaching session on Friday and my Path to Powerful Presentations on Saturday while fighting jet lag (they said I was a whole different speaker on Saturday, than Friday night. Hmmmm, interesting). Off to sightsee for a day before I do the 16 hour flight back.

I thoroughly enjoyed  my Chinese “Stage Time,”

P.S. Thanks to District 85p and especially Keith (A very passionate DG), and Victor, who have both taken great care of me. (My mom thanks you!)