I was always the shyest kied, hiding behind my father. Terrified about any group speak, but finally I had a messsagethat I thought was important to share. I knew my subject, studied my presentation, tape recorded it so I could listen to it while driving. The big day came. My legs were so weak I thought I could not walk. When finally stabilixed, my legs would not move. Got to podium in a haze. The intro from the moderator, then I was on. My voice would not work, I know it looked like I was gasping for air. I opened with "It is said the most commonly shared fear is public speaking........and I am TERRIFIED". The audience laughed, the "I'm with you" laugh, heads were nodding, a few murmured "I'm with you". I found a kind face and survived. I used that opening line for years, and now I don't have to. {rA