To be in a room containing over 200 people with total silence was awesome and I can’t remember that ever happening before. I don’t know if you were aware of the silence but there wasn’t a single cough, any sound of people whispering or shuffling, just stillness. I think that some people had even forgotten to breathe!
The effect you provoked was extraordinary. You made an outstanding, brave and emotionally honest presentation which moved and inspired us all. What you communicated about how you felt and what you had learnt about yourself touched a
chord, I know, in every individual present – in a unique and profound way.
Executive Vice-President & Group Executive
Your ability to describe your ordeal was so clear: I felt that I was in the plane with you, in the desert with you and in the cell with you. I know I could never possible imagine, for real, what you went through and I sincerely hope no-one else ever has to endure that sort of treatment again.
National Sales Development Manager London & Manchester Ltd
John Peters was inspirational. This wasn’t said lightly. He was moving and funny. Remember his photo so well… the man behind that photograph is more memorable. Thank you for the opportunity to listen to him.
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.
Walker User Group