I met a group of friends when I
Was right about thirteen:
(For forty years now, we’ve been friends
Through times both bleak and green)

And they were all debate types
So I also went and tried:
My heart just wasn’t in it
I was along for the ride

But as a part of all of this
I had to learn to speak
Up there in front of people
And be subject to critique

Which isn’t easy as a teen
As all of you will know;
But that was what my friends all did
And so, I too would go

Off to Ms. Nelson’s class where we’d
Give speeches we would write:
And learn how to relax and stand
And get over stage fright

And gradually, I got better
And one day I felt at ease;
She’d taught me, through her patience
And by gradual degrees

Just how I could express myself.
It’s funny, in those days:
I thought little about it
In my self-absorbish phase

But years went on, and I was then
At work, called on to speak;
And I was kind of good at it
When I was at my peak

Which is quite strange for someone who
Works as a numbers nerd:
But I could speak quite comfortably
Be understood and heard —

Ms. Nelson I should thank you
You’re still here, and so I can:
You taught me how I could stand up
You helped me
Be
A man

= = = = =

Never Too Late

Is there a person you should’ve thanked, but never had the chance? Is there someone who helped you along the way without even realizing it? Here’s your chance to express your belated gratitude.

(..)