Saturday, July 22, 2017

The Last Dawn of the Last Speech...

Written by Eunice Tan
Edited by Charis Chen 

"Blow wind blow!"

"Blow all those with hair below their ears!"

The entire group scatters.

Welcome to our May 27th Chapter Meeting!

Our Chapter Sponsor Coach Joseph welcomed us all and passed the time to Danelle, who kickstarted our day with an energetic game of "Blow Wind Blow!

Not only did this give us a chance to burn calories running from one end of the circle to the other, but it also gave us an opportunity to notice other people and think in terms of a team-like context. Thank you, Danelle for leading us! We definitely had our share of hysterical laughter!

After the activity, we were fully energized to start the day's meeting!

Jern Yoong led us in a devotion about a man who, despite the fact that he was not young or exceptionally fit, won a challenging race. Why? Because he did not take any naps or rest. He persevered while his fellow competitors who were stronger physically fell behind by sleeping. From this devotion, we learned that true perseverance means not stopping. It is an issue of the heart and will, an inward decision to press on. Thank you, Jern Yoong for that meaningful nugget of truth!

Subsequently, we commenced our speech practices.

Firstly, Danelle presented her interpretation "A Very Long Poem," which greatly intrigued us. Good job, Danelle!

Next up, Carlson and Lafayette practiced their impromptu speeches. It was a pleasure hearing their energetic speeches! Good work, Carlson and Lafayette!

Our Assistant Chapter Chair, Charis then gave us a short sharing that made us think about our requests to God in a very different way.  Drawing from a scene in the movie, Evan Almighty, she asked us, "When you ask God for courage, do you think He gives you courage immediately or does He give you opportunities to be courageous?" Interestingly, God does not suddenly bestow magic powers of character the minute we pray for it, but gives us learning outlets by which we can be pruned to grow more and more like Christ. This undoubtedly gave us something to think about! Thank you, Charis!

After a delicious lunch, we commenced to the last batch of speakers presenting the last speech in their YSG journey...

Behold-

THE LAST DAWN OF SPEECH 10.

We sat in anticipation as we awaited the 3 remaining speakers who were working hard toward their goal: to be inducted into the Young Speakers Guild.

First up, Ian delivered his celebratory speech detailing all his ICC experiences and things he learned from God and others in YSG. It was a blessing to journey along with him and join in his joy as he presented his finishing speech. He definitely has grown spiritually and as a speaker! Congratulations, Ian!

Next, I shared memorable stories and opportunities that God has provided me with in this ICC journey and how He has humbled me so much and shown me His glory through all the events and speeches I've participated in. Thank you to all my fellow speakers, persevering parents, and coaches who have greatly mentored me! I cannot describe the relief and joy I felt when I completed that last speech!

Lastly, Ranen brought us through his eventful ICC journey, sharing his learning experiences and God's work in his YSG journey. It was an honour to journey with him and see the great growth in him, not only as a speaker, but also as a follower of Christ! Congrats, Ranen!

This last presentations of Speech 10 reminded us immensely of God's everlasting providence and that, no matter what, His sovereign plan will always be carried out. We can't wait to see more of his wondrous work in the rest of our ICC journies!

As our meeting was approaching its end, the future guild inductees met for a round of practice for the Nicene Creed presentation during our upcoming Guild Ceremony! We are so excited to celebrate God's accomplishments in our lives on that day! It will, no doubt,  be a moment to remember.

And that's a wrap! I never stop marveling at how God can bring so many people from diverse backgrounds together, united under one purpose in ICC: to become Ambassadors for Christ! Who knows what more exciting windows and opportunities God has in store for us ahead? Let us wait on the Lord. And one day, we'll be glad we did.

Looking forward to more wonderful meetings! Till we meet again...