R. David Thomas ( Guideposts, February 1991)

... The fact is I never enjoyed the limelight.  I was always the guy behind the scenes.  But life holds many surprises, and sometimes the things that intimidate you most can turn out to be the biggest sources of strength.... I decided that come what may, I would forget acting like myself.  I'd just be myself -- plain old Dave Thomas, a guy used to getting his hands wrinkled in hot diswater, a guy who feels more at home making hamburgers than doing commercials.  And you know, I was more relaxed, more natural.  I also found myself more confident, and when you're confident, you become more spontaneous, more adaptable and able to speak boldly.... when you speak out confidently, folks listen.... I realized I had been focusing on myself, and I was tongue-tied because I was self-consciuos.... The more I relaxed, the more confident I became.... As time went on, I began to enjoy doing commercials, especially the humorouos ones.  And soon the words just came out naturally.... Folks enjoy it when you poke a little fun at yourself.  They sympathize with you, get into your corner.  And it's a good way to relax, especially when speaking before a group.  So whether you're addressing a business meeting, church function or your class, remember what I learned; Just be yourself, focus on the folks you're talking to and let your natural enthusiasm take over.  And I learned one other important lesson.  When you do the thing you fear the most, God might well have a pleasant surprise for you.