Step Into the River

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!

Originally posted on: My Purpose Now