So I took the train up to sunny (!) London today to join in with the “Grin & Beat It” comedy event. At first when I said “Hello fellow Optimistic people” outside the Comedy Club people seemed a bit quiet… but they soon warmed up!In exchange for some free chocolate I leant my camera to a Gorilla as he went off to hug half of London in the space of 30 minutes (LOL Gareth). Meanwhile I met some new people – one of my favourite pastimes – and randomly Rachel and I ended up interviewing a journalist:
Robin M (30), hot from asking our sunny Prime Minister questions at a press conference, was excited and optimistic about meeting some Optimistic people.
My first question to Robin was “was he from Sherwood?” And yes he is originally from the Sherwood Forest area!! (Yes, you can’t make this stuff up.)
He started his journalism career typing up the football results and moved quickly to covering sports events. He now works for an agency (AFP); who sell news onto many companies and news services across the globe. “Any UK news in Australia probably comes from us.”Robin now covers many varied and different areas of news. He has been on some top secret assignments, which for national security we can’t mention. And often goes on day trips around the world to cover important events.
He seemed to have a hobby of interviewing the Prime Minister (proven by the fact he had done so again this morning) and has even been away with him – on business! Although he did state that interviewing us (The Optimists Society) was far more fun – sorry Gordon!
Robin (of Sherwood) also has an obsession with asking peoples ages. Although we suspect this is a symptom of being a journalist.
Next we had a great motivational speech from L Vaughn Spencer "The Gansta Motivator". A truly inspirational speech which reduced me (and half the audience) to tears! “Don’t be Needy be Succeedy” is my new mantra!
Then onto a session of “Laughter Yoga” a Laughter Workshop. We learnt how to laugh in many different languages including witch and monkey (the Gorilla came in handy).
The highlight of the event was Malcolm – who had randomly travelled all the way from Glasgow just to join us! Wow. Big up Malcolm – he had about 3 rounds of applause just for him.
Then after going to the pub – another interview for James, 400 of the day I believe? – I was interviewed back by Robin of Sherwood. And yes he asked my age (see) I did think about lying, but lied about where I live instead.
Then back to ‘Optimists Society’ HQ to wrap some pressies and write cards ready to deliver to all the miserable famous people. I finally learnt to spell Optimists after the 5th card.
Finally on my way back to Paddington I managed to give a gift to Sir Stuart Rose, Executive Chairman of Marks & Spencer’s – we like Plan A. The receptionist seemed confused by my gift of Chocolate and my ‘Optimists Society’ business card. But rang his secretary (Jane) to pop down and get the gift!
I did think about telling her ‘I was a child of M&S’ as I would not exist if it wasn’t for their amazing clothes – my parents met when working for them – but thought the better of it as she seemed scared enough already.
I rounded off the day by giving my remaining Optimists’ card to the British Rail man at the train station – made him smile!
I am convinced my stomach muscles may ache tomorrow – but sharing the fun with others, and spreading some joy; turning this blue day orange was worth it.
