I’ve never met a microphone that I didn’t like. That seems an odd statement from someone who was so shy as a little kid that he clung to his mother’s leg when meeting people, or had difficulties randomly engaging people at events or gatherings, or has an aversion to small-talk engagements with strangers. But that was me and is me.

Put me in front of a classroom of students as a teacher/presenter or an audience as an emcee or presenter and the microphone becomes my friend, my ally and my partner.  That relationship started in sixth or seventh grade when our class’ part of a school holiday presentation was a take-off of Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In television show. My role was that of Big Al, the sportscaster character in the show that lasted for five and one-half years.

The script for the class show was written by the students, a fun group effort. I was nervous before delivering my part of the show, but I liked the lines that I was to deliver before the audience of teachers, parents and students. Right off, people laughed at my lines. I have always enjoyed bringing smiles, laughter and humor to people’s days. While they laughed, I paused until the noise subsided before delivering the next line. The few minutes went quickly and I felt good about how it all went.

That afternoon my mom and I chatted about the show. She said, “You know what you did really well? You waited. Instead of talking over people when they were laughing, you paused to let them laugh. They were then able to hear the next joke. That was really good.”

Her single, sincere observation of something that I did that was special and important, truly changed my life. Being in front of an audience, observing their reactions to what I share so I can adjust to it, feeling positive about offering something special to even just one person who says “I need what you said today,” and then being able to walk away brings me great joy and comfort. From that skit on, I have never feared public speaking or being in front of an audience. Public speaking became one of the most enjoyable parts of any role or job that I have ever had.

Mom’s compliment included insight as to why she thought I did a good job. She understood how difficult it was for me to have a role in the spotlight in front of a crowd of people. We can change people’s days, outlooks or lives with such observations that are sincere, well-meaning, and insightful. Instead of saying, “Great job!” try “Great job! I know you were out of your comfort zone on that but no one could tell,” or “Great job! Clearly all that practice you have been doing is paying off,” or…  the list goes on. When compliments move from bumper sticker statements to authentic observations born in love and respect, lives can be changed.