Imagine stepping into a room buzzing with anticipation and curiosity, filled with people eager to explore a topic close to our hearts: “Staying Human in the World of Science.” That’s exactly what unfolded on a sunny afternoon, September 17th, 2023, at the District Secretariat Office Auditorium in Gampaha, as members of Siyane Toastmasters Club gathered for their 336th meeting.
At the helm was TM Roshan Jayawardhane, a compassionate soul and doctor by profession. With a warm smile and a heart full of stories, TM Roshan led the way, drawing from his own experiences to guide us through the complexities of modern life.
As we settled into our seats, TM Roshan’s words washed over us like a gentle breeze, inviting us to ponder the ways in which technology and science have reshaped our world. With each anecdote shared, we couldn’t help but reflect on the subtle shifts in our daily lives—how we’ve become so accustomed to convenience that we’ve forgotten the joy of putting in effort, whether it’s preparing a meal with love or penning a heartfelt letter to a friend.
But it wasn’t just about lamenting the loss of old traditions. TM Roshan’s message was one of hope—a call to action to reclaim our humanity in a world increasingly dominated by screens and algorithms. His words struck a chord with each of us, reminding us of the importance of genuine connections and meaningful interactions in an age of digital distractions.
And as TM Roshan stepped down from the stage, his message lingered in the air, infusing the room with a sense of purpose and determination. Inspired by his words, members took to the stage with passion and vulnerability, sharing their own stories and insights into what it means to stay human in today’s fast-paced world.
In the end, it was TM Himantha Thennakoon who captured our hearts with his stirring speech, TM Chamin Athauda who offered words of wisdom as the best evaluator, and TM Wasana Hettihewage who brought warmth and laughter as the best role player.
But the real magic of the day wasn’t just in the speeches or the awards—it was in the connections forged and the conversations shared. As we mingled and laughed together, it became clear that the true essence of Toastmasters lies not just in improving our speaking skills, but in rediscovering the humanity that binds us all.
As we left the auditorium that day, hearts a little fuller and spirits a little lighter, we carried with us a newfound appreciation for the simple joys of human connection. And as we ventured back into the world, we vowed to hold onto that precious reminder: that no matter how advanced our technology may become, it’s our humanity that will always be our greatest strength.
