From Fear to Friends

I arrived this afternoon at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference and even before I stepped out of the shuttle van, a tremor of excitement ran through me.

The first year I attended this conference (2009) I was scared out of my little mind. I walked the grounds in awe (and terror) of the multi-published authors and the powerful editors and agents. (See posts from my first year here, here and here). I remember being amazed that they would even speak to a beginning writer.

Now that I’m on conference number four, my nerves have settled. I’ve finally been convinced that these folks are not only willing to talk to me–they actually enjoy mentoring new writers. Today I count many of these crazy people among my friends…and I’m not just talking about “Facebook friends.” I was hugged by a best-selling author today. What a dream come true.

I truly respect the newcomers who can jump right into the deep end and swim with the big fish. I’ve heard many people say, “The ground is level at the foot of the cross” and I’ve never experienced the truth of that statement more than at Mount Hermon.

Well…there was that one moment at dinner tonight when I looked around the room and happened to lock eyes with Liz Curtis Higgs. I got that familiar flutter in my chest and I almost leaned over to my neighbor and said, “Do you know who THAT is???” But then the feeling passed. I smiled. Liz smiled.

I LOVE this place.

When will the fear kick in? Probably when I’m seated across from an editor and it’s time to pitch my latest, greatest book idea. But I won’t be afraid of the editor–just tripping over my tongue. So, say a prayer for me. Or for my tongue. Whatever. 🙂

Want to learn more? Check out the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference website. You won’t be sorry.

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