Today, I had an experience that tested my ability to adapt and think on my feet. I was honoured as one of the facilitators to speak at the teenagers' forum in my church. I was only told briefly what the forum was all about and how I should prepare to share my experiences in terms of academics as a motivation to them. I wasn't given a topic initially but prepared one I believed would resonate with them. My points were clear, and I was sure of my delivery because I rehearsed well for some days, and I felt ready to inspire the teenagers.
But just a few minutes to step on stage, I was given a different topic to talk about. My heart sank. The new topic was entirely different from the one I'd prepared and there was no time for me to rework my notes. At that moment, I felt the panic, and it threatened to take over, but I calmed down and reminded myself that God always provides what we need, even in situations we don't expect. I whispered a gentle prayer for the Holy Spirit to help me.
As there was no much time left to prepare, I took a deep breath and at that moment, I realised I needed to think fast. I started scanning through my mind for stories and lessons, reflecting on my personal experiences, the ones that aligned with the new topic, and thankfully, I got some to share, and that relieved me. With just a few minutes left, I grabbed my phone and did a quick online search for any scripture to back up my topic and ideas that could reinforce my message. The pressure was immense, but I knew I had to make the most of the little time I was given to talk.
When it was time to speak, I walked up to the stage, still feeling a little nervous but with determination to do my best. I opened my speech by showing my gratitude to God and for the honour to be invited to such a forum; then, I began with a personal story and then another that was honest and relevant to the new topic. As I spoke, I felt calm, like warm water poured on my body, as if God was guiding my words. I connected the topic with a scripture from the Bible, coupled with stories, attaching them to the lessons I had learned over the years, tying them back to the challenges being faced by teenagers today.
To my surprise, the teenagers were fully engrossed in every word and were completely engaged. Their nods, smiles, attentiveness, and applause assured me that my message was resonating with them. Though it wasn't a topic I'd planned, it turned out to be an amazing one that was meaningful to everyone.
As I thought over it, I realised that life often throws us a curveball, and our ability to adapt can make a difference. When I shared my experience with my sister, she appreciated my strength and how I was able to adapt to such a change in just a few minutes. Preparation is important, but also the ability to think fast. Sometimes, a message doesn't come out from meticulous planning but from the heart.
This experience taught me a valuable lesson: even when things do not go as planned, God has His way of providing what we need to succeed. All we have to do is to involve Him, trust in Him and take the leap.
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