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By Karen DeArmond Gardner—
Surrounded by mountains, the view from the mezzanine level of the Broadmoor hotel is breathtaking. Distant dots in the sky become geese, circling as they come closer and closer and eventually land on the pond. The sight lured me outside. I pulled my jacket closer and drew in my breath. It was beautiful. The hotel is vintage with a hint of old world. So much to take in, I was a tourist, gawking, taking photos with my phone. I could just pinch myself—in disbelief I am here, ready to meet authors, agents and representatives of publishing companies.
I came to learn the craft of writing, to find out if I have what it takes to be an author—not just someone who dabbles in writing. I discovered I was not alone while networking with other writers, giving bits of my story. Did you write fiction or non-fiction, is this your first conference, are you published? Just some of the more popular questions discussed by attendees.
At the last minute I decided to pitch my idea for a book to a publisher to find out if they would be remotely interested. I was completely surprised by the response of the publisher…based on my proposal, he was interested. He could have knocked me over with a feather! After sitting under some of the best authors in the industry, I knew I was at a crossroads. One of the speakers asked, “Do you want to be adequate or distinct?”
I have a choice to be barely sufficient or unquestionably exceptional. I spent too much of my life being barely sufficient, so I choose to be unquestionably exceptional. I know I cannot do this on my own, but only by the power of God since He is the only unquestionably exceptional being. Philippines 4:13 says I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
It is time for me to do my part so God can do his part. My part is to learn, write and learn some more. I feel like the Israelites as they stood at the banks of the Jordan River for three days, knowing they had to cross the raging river ahead. Only Joshua and Caleb were present for the parting of the Red Sea, the others only heard the stories. They had no idea how they were going to get across to the Promised Land. The river did not part until they stepped into the water.
I believe there is a part God wants us to do. He can’t do his part until we do ours. Will you step with me into the water? I’m stepping…and oh, the water is cold!
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Karen, I have stepped into the Jordan twice in my life. The water was cold…and murky. I remember being baptized into those waters during one of our journeys to Israel. While, for a moment, I was tempted to recoil at the gunk in the water, I let go of all my fear because it was the Jordan, after all! Who cares about gunk when you get the chance of a lifetime to step into such a sacred place. So…step in, my friend. You will be standing on holy ground. And, just as the ark carrying God’s presence went into the waters BEFORE the Israelites, the presence of Christ will go BEFORE you…and remain there until the waters recede and you cross over. May God bless your journey.
Penny I have always played it safe now I’m beginning to take risks. You are so right it can be murky & maybe slimy. Thank you for the encouragement.
Step into the river, friend. Watch as the waters part. How exciting to be part of a miracle; but then, you are one too.
Awwwww thank you Cindy. You have always been my cheerleader.
Karen, lovely, lovely post! Your words certainly provoke deep thought, & great hope for those of us willing to let God take our fears as His, & encourage us to, “Do it, anyway.” I’m glad you’ve gone there. You’re an amazing writer. ; >
Thank you Linda how wonderfully encouraging. Someday we must meet. Especially since we are family 🙂
Indeed, Karen. Would love that chance. Let’s surround the idea w/positive thoughts. It will come to pass, “Cousin.” ; >
Karen, I am not the religious person that I would hope to be, but at the same time am inspired by your writing and am proud of your accomplishments. Please continue enjoying your “conference” in Colorado and DO follow your dream of becoming a writer. Proud of you, your brother, Eddie.
Tom and I are not religious either. Ask Tom about what I mean. Thank you for your sweet words.
What a beautiful post–and a what beautifully repurposed life. I hope your book proposal leads to
an exceptional book. And, I applaud your decision to reach higher in your second life–and the acknowledgment of the help you got getting there. Happy to find you and your blog.