I have to write a speech

[rjamz]

The weekend before their weddings, Jewish men have something called an Auf Ruf (don't ask me what it means, I have no clue). They read the Torah portion and there's usually dinner and lunch.

My childhood friend is having his auf ruf this weekend and he asked me to speak at the Saturday lunch. We've been friends continuously since 2nd grade. We went to elementary and HS together. So of course I said yes.

Here's the thing...I'm terrified of public speaking. Also, I'm a very good writer...of academic type things. Not of sentimental things. Any tips? I don't want to sound like I'm giving a talk about the domestic lives of the Victorian British (fascinating as that may be).

Sent from my SPH-D710 using proboards

[thedahliharpa]

I bet it will be great. I would start by jotting down your favorite memories, things you admire, etc first and then determine a theme that you can carry through and that will nicely tie it all together. We can help edit :-)

[charlielove]

Everything Dahli said. And throw in a glass of wine beforehand, a funny anecdote to give people a chuckle and you'll be golden.

[rjamz]

Wine is a good idea! Luckily J is going to hang out with MIL during the day tomorrow so I can work on it.

[Beener]

I agree that stories- particularly ones that embarrass the both of you- are the best to tell. Anything that will get a chuckle but still makes the guy likeable. I bet if you Google "best man" speeches or something similar, you'll get a lot of hits and can spin off them. Good luck!