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Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Ring of Fire






In 2008, while my husband Paul was recuperating from a kidney transplant, I 'stumbled' across the website for the first Write2Ignite Conference. Although I had been making a little money at writing and been fortunate to be published by Abingdon Press, Standard Publishing, Eldridge Publishing, LIVE Publications and employed as a ghostwriter, I had never attended a writing conference. What complicates my story is the Write2Ignite Conference was held in North Carolina and God had planted my feet and family on rich Iowa soil. It would be a major trip, but it just so happened my big brother only lived a few miles from where the conference was held. (My big brother is always coming through for his baby seester!) My attending all depended on my husband's condition. If he was gaining strength and okay with my leaving, I felt I could go, but if he was the least bit apprehensive, I knew my going was out of the question. Paul practically pushed me out the door. I think his words were, "You've been under enough stress. Go enjoy yourself."

When I walked into the 2008 Write2Ignite Conference, as Johnny Cash would say, "I fell into a burning ring of fire!" I thought for sure someone was going to have to call the fire department. (Especially during the closing session when Pam Zollman lit the candles.) The emphasis was about ministry writing. Honing your craft, but not relying on your ability to be published. Allowing God to enlarge your writing influence. Someone spoke of when preparation meets opportunity! That has been etched in my mind's eye.

In that closing session, I felt like the little boy who gave Jesus his lunch. I was giving him my stories and life's experiences. "Lord, I'm ready to have you use me or not be used at all. You choose for me."

I left the 2008 Conference inspired. My moist eyes were on Jesus and my hand was on the plow.

Writing opportunites came from the north, south, east and west. More ghostwriting (or should I say Holy Ghostwriting) assignments showed up in my inbox.

When I learned about the 2010 Write2Ignite Conference, I made plans to attend. It was slightly more complicated because this time the conference was held in South Carolina and my feet were still planted in northern Iowa - almost to Minnesota, but I made it and am I glad I did.

I have never seen so many 'cheerleaders' in one place. (a round of pom poms for all) The presenters poured their knowledge and expertise into the attendees. Each one exemplified a true servant's heart. There was something for the every writing level.

I look forward to the next Write2Ignite Conference. Whew! It's getting hot in here.

5 comments:

Write2ignite said...

Dixie!! You are a darling, beautiful woman of God - I am so glad I got to see you this past weekend. I love that picture of us, too. :) Lord willing, I am willing to seeing you in the very near future. (and I'm linking this fabulous blog post to the Write2Ignite site, too!)

Jean said...

Hi, Sweet Dixie!

It was great to see you again. I'm thrilled the Lord is blessing you with so many opportunities to write for Him.

Thank you so much for your part in the Alternative Publishing Panel. You were an inspiration to many of the attendees.

Blessings,
Jean

Write2ignite said...

I am posting a comment AGAIN...b/c I was posting late last night and should have proofread before I posted. :)

"Lord willing, I am looking forward to seeing you in the very near future!" :)

I'm adding you to my blogroll, Ms. Dixie!

Truly His said...

You will never know who grabs one of those books, Mom, and truly is changed. We will only know on the other side of life. :) I am so proud of you and know that that hurting, lost, and all will be inspired from your books.

God is opening doors...

love, me

Clementine said...

Oh Dixie I'm so glad you got to go again! I couldn't make it this year, but I'll be moderating the Yahoo group soon!!! I look forward to catching up with you, and hopefully we'll see each other at the next one.

Love & Miss you!

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