Weathering the Storm: The Unyielding Spirit of Gurgaon Toastmasters

“The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.”

When I joined Gurgaon Toastmasters a year ago, I had no idea that this decision would lead me to one of the most inspiring experiences of my life. As the oldest Community club in Gurgaon, our club has a rich legacy but it’s always the people, their stories, and their dedication that truly define it. Over the past year, I’ve witnessed remarkable growth, both in the club and in myself, but nothing compares to what happened on 11th August, 2024.

There’s a well-known saying in Gurgaon: as soon as a drop of water hits the roads, traffic jams follow almost instantly.

11th August was one of those days. It was a day when the skies seemed to have declared war on the City. Torrential rain flooded the streets, creating chaos all around, and turning roads into rivers. Most of Gurgaon was at a standstill, with vehicles stuck in traffic and waterlogged streets, deterring even the best of the souls from stepping out. But there was something different about that day – it was SUNDAY, our GTMC meeting day.

There was chaos throughout our WhatsApp Groups. Every other member was sharing Photos of waterlogged roads, outside their houses. I, along with my other teammates, were skeptical of how we were going to conduct this meeting. The Meeting Hall was booked, invitations had been sent and as far as I know, GTMC has never cancelled any meeting in 16years of its rich heritage. But, it seemed like it was happening this time, that too when I am the Club President. WRITERS’ CORNER

As the rain continued to pour, I wondered how many members would make it to the Meeting. The logical part of me expected the number to dwindle. After all, who would brave such weather, that too for a Club meeting? But then, there’s something about Toastmasters, that defies logic. There’s a pull, an inexplicable drive that comes from knowing that every meeting is an opportunity – to learn, to grow, and to connect.

When I reached the venue, unsure, I was greeted by the sight of 14 other members, each of them soaked but smiling. There was a sense of camaraderie in the room, a silentunderstanding that this was more than just a typical Toastmasters meeting. It was a testament to our collective commitment, to the bond we share as members of this club.

“The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.”

But it wasn’t just the members who made it to the meeting hall that day. There were others who set out with the same determination – some whose cars broke down, others who were stuck in heavy traffic. They were true warriors, showing a level of commitment that went beyond theordinary.

That day, the speeches carried an extra weight, the TableTopics crackled with a different energy and the networking lunch was more special. We weren’t just present or attending the meeting, we were standing together, showingthat NOTHING – not even the forces of nature – could dampen our spirit.

But, it’s not just the members who make this Club special – it’s the guests who walk through our doors week after week. Even on that stormy day, we had three guests who braved the weather to witness what Gurgaon Toastmasters is all about. Their presence was a reminder that the appeal of Toastmasters extends far beyond our regular attendees. There’s something magnetic about our meetings, a blend of learning, laughter and genuine connection that draws people in, no matter the circumstances.

In Gurgaon Toastmasters Club, I have often heard members saying that GTMC is their second home and our meetings are like a family gathering, each member contributing their unique energy, each meeting leaving us a little more inspired. That rainy day was a perfect example for this. It was a reminder that while we grow in numbers, what truly mattersis the strength of our commitment to each other and the journey we’ve embarked on together.

To anyone considering joining Toastmasters, I say this: Be prepared for the Unexpected. Be ready to be inspired in ways you never Imagined. And know that once you are part of this community, it’s the experiences – like the one discussed above, showing up in the rain – that will keep you coming back, week after week after week.