General Purpose: To pay tribute
Specific Purpose: To pay tribute to my mother
Thesis: My mother is the most optimistic person I have ever known. She has a key to happiness, and she readily shares it with others.
Introduction: When we are asked to name a person we honor, I have a feeling that many of you think about your parents, or a parent. I choose to talk about my mother, because she made the biggest contribution in my life and who I am now.
Credibility: She is not only my mother, but also a best friend, mentor, and spiritual teacher. With her advices she helps me improve myself and motivates me to become a better person.
Audience Interest Statement: In her 50s, she is fitter and healthier than most 20 years old. She lives her life in fullest, knowing how to enjoy every moment of it. Her energy level is very high.
Thesis: My mother is the most optimistic person I have ever known. She has a key to happiness, and she readily shares it with others.
Preview: Don’t you want to know what it is? We all use different methods to overcome difficulties and to find balance in our lives.
[Transition: My mother’s main strategy is to stay active. She has always been very active, all her life.]
I. Be active
a.) Up until these days, she participates in every sport event in our small town. b.) She always walks to work and back in any weather. It takes her about an hour each way. c.) In summer she wakes up early in the morning and go swimming in the river. Sometimes she does it in winter too. d.) She also takes a bally dance class, which she talks about all the time. e.) I remember when I was in high school my classmate Alina said once, I quote "Every time after talking to your mom, and seeing her so energetic, active and glowing; I feel like a 70 years old grandma" End quote. Next day she bought a gym membership.
[Transition: Staying active