It’s not about me
By Randell Tiongson on February 7th, 2010I did something new today and last Sunday. I am a public speaker and trainer but I was given a new challenge – instead of being the trainer or speaker, I became a host and a moderator.
When I was offered a job to be such, I wasn’t too sure if I was the right person for the job and really gave the offer a lot of thinking. I was used to being introduced and being guided by moderators but being on the other side of the fence made me think twice. Why? I was not sure if I was the right person for the job. I accepted the job because it was difficult to say no to my friend who organized the program (Tom Gotuaco) and I will be moderating for three of my most respected colleagues (Efren Cruz, Suzan Bigay and Melvin Esteban).
It was a good thing that I took the challenge because I really enjoyed the ‘new’ challenge. It is a great feeling making other people look good, redirecting attention away from you and towards others. I am not sure if I did a good job but I definitely enjoyed it.
Some take-away lessons for me:
1) I may think that I am good at what I do but in reality, there are people who are really much better and they deserve the spotlight, or the stage;
2) Just like in life, everyone has an important role;
3) Making other people look good is not only a humbling experience, there must be sincerity in it; and
4) Challenges are meant to be met, not feared.
This activity is also a good reminder about our purpose in life. Your purpose is never about you and will always be bigger than yourself; and whenever there is an opportunity, redirect whatever glory there is away from you and towards God – He is the only one who is worthy of any glory.
If ever I will be offered a job as a moderator and host, I will not think twice anymore.

