In john steinbeck’s “the turtle,” what is the first obstacle the turtle faces on its journey?
a) the red ant
b) the quartz rock
c) the cars
d) the embankment

D) the embankment  

The story begins with the turtle walking over grass, which it does in an unencumbered manner.  Even though what is described is a gradual sort of trudging by how the turtle moves itself by slowly “boosting and dragging his shell along,” the turtle trampled through the grass “leaving a beaten trail behind him.”  It is when the turtle emerges from the grass and comes to an embankment that there are descriptions of how he is challenged in the climb.  However, he was able to overcome this first obstacle.    

each year on this day, i make it a point to listen to dr. martin luther king jr.’s great “i have a dream” speech. it’s electrifying every single time.

the content of dr. king’s speech, his inspiring presence, and the moment in history all came together to make the iconic “i have a dream” speech the defining moment of the american civil rights movement. but there are several other reasons why this speech, delivered over 50 years ago, remains an example of one of the best speeches in american history.

since part of my job is to people become better presenters, i’ve noticed several techniques that we can all learn from and be inspired by in this magnificent speech.

it’s anchored in a powerful related location

in most cases, you can’t handpick the spot to give a presentation, as mlk did for supreme symbolic effect when he stood on the steps of the lincoln memorial and echoed the opening words of the gettysburg address (“five score years ago . . ). but you absolutely can amplify your message by adapting it to your setting and location.