Connections

Ok. I’m pumped. I’ve just returned from the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in North Carolina, and I’m ready to write, write, write! I am so grateful to have been able to meet and network with so many talented writers. It is soul soothing to be around people that get me. People who understand that there are always imaginary characters in imaginary settings running around in my head. They listen intently as I speak of stories that haven’t happened and never will except on the printed page. They agree wholeheartedly when I describe the wellspring of emotions that I experience on a regular basis as a writer. It is an exciting, exasperating journey and there is none other like it.

I fellowshipped with old friends and made some new friends. Cara, it was so fun to meet you in such a God moment way! Diana, thank you for the impromptu prayer you whispered in my ear. What a blessing you are. Elva, always you are my mentor and friend and inspiration on so many levels. God uses you in remarkable ways! Mary, I want to see those pictures! Edie, you are an amazing woman. Great conference! Ramona, you may not realize it yet, but you’ve just amped up my deadline. This first novel will be finished this summer! You’ve encouraged me, and I thank you for that. Yvonne, thank you for the opportunity you’ve given me to be part of your “Moments” series. Lori, though I don’t see you often, you are often in my thoughts, and I cherish your friendship. Beth, I know that your accomplishments are bittersweet because they are born of pain, but you, as the speaker said, have the unique opportunity to save lives. You will go far, my friend. David, this whole experience was so much richer because you shared it with me.

The list could go on, and on, and on. Connections. It is my belief that people do not cross our paths by accident. I learned several years ago that God places people in our lives at just the right time to encourage us, hold us up during tough times, help us heal or to enrich us. I value each connection I share with those who intersect with my life.

And if it were not for Lisa, I would not be where I am on this writing journey. Lisa does not aspire to be a writer, but she has an incredible gift of words. Four or five years ago, she was the friend that checked on me every single day during and after my divorce offering soothing words of hope. She prayed with me, listened to me say the same things over and over, and over and over until I got it all out of my system. She cried with me, wiped my tears, fought for my sanity and defended me whether I was right or wrong.

In the middle of all that pain, I shared with her my lifelong desire to be a writer. Next thing I knew, she started writing a story. Not to be outdone, I picked up my dormant manuscript and starting writing again. Somewhere along the way, she abandoned her story and picked up mine. She would read, re-read, critique, suggest, and help plot. She accompanied me to the first writing conference that jumpstarted my passion for the writer’s life, then she stepped back gracefully and let me run with it while she turned in another direction to use her beautiful words to lift up, pray for, and encourage others. Thank you, Lisa, for always being there. My sister by heart. For putting up with my moods and for calling me out when need be. Thank you for your encouragement and selfless friendship.

Do you have positive connections in your life? Do you believe you would not be where you are if not for them? If so, please join me in giving them a shout out so the world can celebrate with you!