Curtis Johnson Poet Prose

I Wanted To Get Away

I Wanted To ‘Get Away’   
By Curtis Johnson

Without naming the company, one of my favorite commercials use to be the one featuring ‘embarrassing moments' and closing with the question, “Wanna get away”?  Many years before those commercials were conceived and popularized, I had such a moment in one of my college classes.  It would have been a great time to get away, or disappear, or for a fire drill moments before, or for “The Rapture”.

The class size was no more than 15 plus the teacher, who was a rather friendly and smooth character. I think that it was my second year at Bible college where I was studying for the Gospel ministry.  This was most definitely a required class for anyone seeking to be a public speaker.  So I was well suited to excel in my Homiletic class, or so I thought.  I did fine later on during the year and more that just pass the course.

But for some reason on that particular morning, when it came my turn to stand before the class and preach my sermon, I bummed out.  My subject matter was fine, and my three points were well defined and organized, but just after the introduction of my message, I froze and forgot everything.  The teacher and the class were great and very supportive. I do not remember if I managed to pull through it or whether I was forced to sit down.  What I do remember is that, in spite of the kind spirit in the room, I was very embarrassed.

Yes, I became a pastor and preached hundreds of sermons and spoke in public on many other non church functions.  No, the ‘freeze’ never happened again, and I suspect that I was to ever remain humble and never think myself to be a great speaker.  And also, one embarrassing moment was more than enough for me, and I think that I learned my lesson well.  09282015. 1P

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Dan Cwiak October 23, 2015 at 11:27 PM It is always difficult to stand before an audience and give a topical talk, or even to read poetry or other printed material. I am glad that you got over your original embarassing moment, and I am sure that you enjoy speaking to the congregation now. Congrats on the win and being able to write about it. Curtis Johnson October 24, 2015 at 10:19 AM Thank you for your comments Dan.

Carol Eastman October 22, 2015 at 12:58 PM Congrats on the win. I understand perfectly... I'm glad it didn't stop you from continuing. Curtis Johnson October 22, 2015 at 1:30 PM Thank you Carol for your comments. GBU.

Neva Romaine October 21, 2015 at 2:57 PM Hey Curtis, a hearty congratulations on your win in the contest! Excellent writing and storytelling. Be Blessed, Neva Curtis Johnson October 21, 2015 at 4:53 PM Thank you Neva for your compliment.

Dr. Upma A. Sharma October 20, 2015 at 10:45 PM Congrats on ur awesome win with this superb write curtis! Curtis Johnson October 21, 2015 at 12:35 AM Thank you Dr. Upma for your compliment.

Eve Roper October 20, 2015 at 5:39 PM Congratulations on your win a seven! Curtis Johnson October 21, 2015 at 12:36 AM Thank you Eve.

Jan Allison October 20, 2015 at 4:07 PM Oh curtis I can only begin to imagine how embarrassing this was - but you overcame it and that is the most important thing - congrats on your win:-) hugs Jan xx Curtis Johnson October 21, 2015 at 12:39 AM Thank you Jan for your kind comments. God bless u.