Take a Chance

I discovered an inspirational romance author this year who I really like. Her humor, her writing, her stories make for great reading. On a whim, I decided to e-mail her and tell her how much I enjoy her books. Other than the unrealistic hope that she and I would become best friends, I didn't expect much to happen after I sent the e-mail. A few weeks later I was pleasantly surprised when she e-mailed back.

Her e-mail was gracious and kind--she thanked ME for taking the time to e-mail! Then she asked if I was going to the American Christian Fiction Writers Conference this month.

Of course the answer was no. I looked up the conference just for fun and found out it was in three weeks in Indianapolis. The next day I looked up flights - just for fun, remember. But I kept thinking about the conference and what an great opportunity it would be. When I talked to my DH about it, he said, "Go for it." (And yes, I thank my lucky stars he decided to marry me!)

So next week I'm flying to Indiana. I'm thrilled (a bunch of the editors and agents from the inspirational market will be there), but I'm also scared. I don't like flying or being forced out of my comfort zone to meet new people (did I mention I don't know a soul there?) or unfamiliar situations or having to talk about my books out loud. But I'm going!

If I hadn't taken the chance to e-mail that author, I wouldn't be going to this conference. That's taking another chance in itself. But even if the only thing I get out of it is learning to be more bold personally and professionally, I think it'll be worth it.