We talk a lot about preparing for a conference in cyberspace. Editor and agent etiquette, how to pitch, networking, which classes to take, what kind of clothes to bring.
But we don’t talk much about preparing your heart. Conferences can be stressful, tiring and hard work. Networking possibilities and potential can overwhelm.
After my first ACFW conference, I went home thinking, “I’m never going to a conference again.” That was my tired, discouraged heart speaking.
I felt beige and boring. I remember so clearly seeing newly contracted Susie Warren chatting and laughing with her new editor Anne Horche (nee Goldsmith) and thought, “Will that ever be me?”
I wasn’t jealous, but longing. I had to let go of my own wants and desires to the Lord. Complete surrender.
Well, I went to the next conference. I had to, I was in charge. Please don’t ask how that happened, I’m still not sure, but even being in charge, I knew my heart had potential to get disappointed. So, I prayed this, “Lord, You’re my editor, agent, promoter, if You want me somewhere, You do it.”
By the next conference, my first book was out with others about to be contracted. But being published wasn’t the shield I needed to make me feel a part of things or friended, or like I was with the “in crowd.”
Jesus still needed to be my editor, agent and promoter.
I’m heading to my 9th ACFW conference. Last year Susie and I had a long conversation about what kind of women we want to be at the conference. What was our real goal and purpose? How did we want to leave our imprint on the lives of others? Besides teaching and worship, what was the main purpose God sent us to this conference?
Before polishing your pitch, or making dinner plans or connecting with an editor or agent,