One of the main things that I took away that day was how important adapting to your surroundings was for you. 5 days after hearing your speech, I had a knock on my front door to be advised by the police that my Mum had died suddenly whilst driving home from work.
I know this sounds ridiculous, but with hindsight, I can’t help but think that your speech somehow helped to prepare me for what lied ahead.
I suppose I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your experience and advice, and for helping me to adapt to my new surroundings.
I can honestly say that never before have I known nearly everybody listening to an after dinner/lunch talk be so attentive, hanging on to every word, or so deeply moved by what they were hearing. Equally, I have never before been contacted afterwards by so many who have wanted to express their admiration for and gratitude to a speaker. Your talk was not only inspirational but enjoyable, and we all thought you judged it just right in respect of you theme, its length, and its balance with the more humorous bits.
I am left with the lasting impression of John Peters, who will remain in my memory as one of the most incredible & emotional speakers I have ever experienced the honour of hearing.