Wednesday, November 18, 2009

You Can Do This, part 1


When I attended the Indianapolis Christian Writers’ Conference last year, I returned home saying, “This Is What I Want to Do with My Life, Lord—BE A WRITER.” My tank was full of enthusiasm, my engines were revving, I was ready to jump in the driver’s seat and start the race. I committed to write an hour a day. That was one year ago.

In that year, I’ve sold several humor and devotional articles, finished my first book, written and rewritten two book proposals, signed a contract with my #1 choice for an agent, and finished 70% of my work in progress. I also blogged three times a week, visited others’ blogs one hour a day, increasing my blog following from eleven to over sixty, opened a Face Book account, and attended the famous Write to Publish Conference in Wheaton, IL where I gluttonized on information and inspiration from Those Who Know What They’re Doing.


And then I ran out of gas. Instead of saying, “This Is What I Want to Do with My Life, Lord,” I was asking, “Is this what I want to do with my life, Lord?” I wasn’t ready to drop out of the race yet. But I was running on fumes, my tires were flattened masses, and my enthusiasm was waning. I questioned the wisdom of attending this year’s ICWC, wondering if I’d benefit from it, or slow others down with my less-than-sporting attitude. I prayed a dozen times, “Lord, connect me with people who can give me some direction. Show me if I’m on the wrong track, or if I should even be in the race. Help me, please!” Come back Friday to find out if I left the race or am still driving…

19 comments:

  1. I know you're still driving. :-) Maybe just more slowly? Maybe you left the racetrack for some country roads? *grin*

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  2. Ooooo, what a teaser! I think I know the rest of the story, but I can't wait to hear more! :)

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  3. I know you're still driving, too! LOL
    But I am interested in what you did to refill your tank and keep going.

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  4. Sometimes I feel as though I am running on fumes, too.

    Blessings, andrea

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  5. Oh, please don't run out of gas. Go to God's filling station and make your road trips simple, stopping to see the scenery along the way. It may take longer to get there, but it will be a more pleasurable journey in the end.

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  6. Wow, you've raced hard this year and accomplished so much! I'm proud of you! And I know you'll keep treking along because you're committed to using the gifts God's blessed you with!

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  7. Jen, You're an inspiration! I just know the Lord has great things planned for you. And yes, I'll be here on Friday with bells on dying to know how you refilled that tank! I'm praying for you. OXOX

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  8. Knowing you from these past months--I know you are still driving but maybe at a more reasonable pace?? you live balanced and you know what God wants of you!

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  9. In a lot of ways I've started off full speed too. In the past two years of writing seriously again I've gotten dozens of articles published, written three novels and have managed to run out of steam a bit myself.

    Looking forward to the holidays and some down time to reaccess.
    ~ Wendy

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  10. You've got me hooked...I can't wait until Friday!

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  11. Hi Jen -

    LOL! I love your writing. I'm sure you probably tanked up while at the conference.

    When on empty, go to the Source!

    Blessings,
    Susan :)

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  12. Wow, you've come a long way! Sounds like a busy year! Sometimes when things happen really fast we feel a bit depleted. I hope that you were able to find rest, re-evaluate, and keep going!

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  13. I really admire that you're looking to God to see if this is a race you want to continue. You've accomplished much in the last year and clearly have a gift with writing and inspiring people.

    I'm going to be checking back for sure because I have a distinct suspicion that you're on the right track, it just might take a few detours to find the right path for you :D

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  14. You'll be in the drivers seat. Your ministry his here too, in writing and your graciousness. I'll be waiting to hear. Blessings

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  15. Hey, you guys are the best!

    You make me cry with your sweet, supportive comments. When we all get to Heaven, can you come over to my mansion and chat for a few hundred years?

    Hugs,
    Jen

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  16. I hope you're still driving, Jen! I hope your foot is pressed hard on that gas pedal and your fingers are wrapped tight around that wheel and you're staring down the road with steel in your eyes!

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  17. Jeanette, remember that parable about the talents???!!!!

    You have been using 'em like crazy, girl.

    Now accordance up the perseverance verses...
    There with you.
    Patti

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  18. Jeanette:
    I understand what you mean. I wonder if I am called by God to do this when my day slips away from me and I haven't done anything-even write. (Today was one of those days.)

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  19. Jeanette, I've been in this race for near seven years now and I'm no where near where you've arrived. No sales of articles, no agent. But, yes, I'm stil in this race. Listen to Him. Hear His Answer.

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Oh, it's YOU! I'm so happy to see you here today, and look forward to reading your comments.