I am so proud of Lady Clara. Today, she participated in her school's 3rd Annual Oratory Contest (and her first-ever speech competition). Lady Clara was the lone fourth grader amongst four fifth graders but that didn't stress her. Her godmommy, Kamille E. Wright, and I, prepped her beforehand on how to deliver or rather "BRING IT" when she hits the stage.
When Ms. Lord, Lady Clara's speech coach, called her name first to come to the stage and recite her speech, the auditorium went wild with cheers and claps. She took the name, stood up tall and proud, and then, she said, "I will be reciting the eulogy of Rosa Parks delivered by Oprah Winfrey on October 31, 2005..."
From the first word to the last, she was poised, gave constant eye contest, paused in the right places and spoke with conviction. My daughter looked natural on stage. Visions of future speeches danced in my head.
When Lady Clara concluded her speech -- which was a flawless delivery -- she thanked the audience and proceeded to leave the stage. Again, she received applauses and praises. I overheard one of the judges say that she did an incredible job. I thanked Jesus out loud. I was thankful because I know the road I have traveled to get Lady Clara to this point of being confortable and confident to stand before a packed room of people to speak.
My spirit was full and my heart filled with gratitude. After the four judges deliberated, they announced the overall winner (who will go on to compete against students from other schools) and the second, third and fourth place winners.
Ms. Lord announced that Lady Clara had tied for second place! Yes! She received her school certificate and later on receive her certificate from The Adelaide L. Sandord Institute, which is the institution that created this oratory competition. I recorded her speech and took pictures of her. This opens up a whole new world for Lady Clara. This is perfect timing, too, because she has expressed interest in broadcast journalism and already has her own news show, "Kids Witness News."
There was nothing more important than being at school today to see Lady Clara step into her power. I encourage you -- my single mom sistahs -- to be there to support your children in school and in their extracurricular activities as much is possible. I know that being in the audience made a difference to her. Being there made a differnce for me as well.
So, congrats to my first born... You did well Lady Clara. So much more is definitely on the horizon!
Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life.
Love you!
Feona Sharhran Huff
