From Diapers to Word Count (SpeakUP Blog Hop!)

This past weekend I had the opportunity to attend SpeakUp Conference in Grand Rapids, MI, where I joined dozens of other speakers and writers from a rainbow of backgrounds and states (27, actually, but who’s counting?).

For someone like me who never graduated from college- who has spent the last 7 (wonderful) years as a stay-at-home parent, this was a whole new ball game.  Suddenly I was surrounded by professionals who were more interested in my word count than my “diapers-changed” count.  My stand-by ice breakers of blowing raspberries on bellies and talking in my goofy Scottish pirate accent would not have gone over well with this crowd.  Not that I tried.

And everyone was so put together- were they, in fact, TOO put together and polished for me to learn anything from?  I sometimes feel I play the part of the rebel- I overthink things- I’m scattered and can’t even manage to take a shower everyday- was THIS really a group I was going to fit into?  Could I see this as more than a glorified competition for the most likes, thumbs ups, and book supporters?

At the risk of failing miserably to properly build the suspense here…the answer is YES.

From the minute I started interacting with others, I found genuine hearts and vulnerable stories underneath the business clothes, behind the impressive lists of accomplishments.  From the outset the conference leaders painted a picture of humility and submission to God rather than competition and glory-snatching.

I walked in skeptical and desperately hoping to have a unique platform to jump from- I walked out with an incredible sense that we’re all here “for such a time as this*”- that when our ideas flow from our Creator, it doesn’t matter if they’re unique or overlapping.  We each have a voice and a circle of influence for a reason- for precisely now…whether someone slaps an endorsement sticker on us or not.  That’s just gravy.

And yes, I got plenty of practical advice for branching out into more speaking and writing.  Probably the biggest take-away for me was the idea of really bringing my message and heart of ministry into clearer focus.  Mentors, agents and speakers encouraged me to KNOW succinctly what message I’m meant to speak out in this season, and define clearly the needs of the people I’m serving in any given situation.

This means finding my voice- finding the what and the who of my “for such a time as this”.  So I can speak up clearly and effectively.  Whether it’s at a playdate swapping temper-tantrum stories, or speaking about my faith in front of a crowd.  It all matters- it’s all part of my purpose.

So what about YOU?  What do you feel is your “for such a time as this”, and what steps are you taking to embrace that role in this season of your life? Comment below to share you story and join the conversation!

*(Esther 4:14- NIV)