That First Spark

That first spark of excitement for any new adventure is always the sweetest. Don’t you agree? Remember the elation of your first solo drive? How about the tingle of anticipation for your first college class? Ah, and the unrivaled thrill of that first kiss…unforgettable.  The events of the past several weeks have me thinking of the first moment I realized I was a writer.

My journey into the writing world did not follow the usual path. My love for the written word didn’t begin with a favorite childhood storybook, nor did it ignite through the daily chronicling of the passions and travails of adolescence. There was no teacher along the way who inspired me to pursue this particular path.

No. The first moment my desire to write flared to life was at a regional writers’ conference in western Pennsylvania.  It was there that the leader of the fiction critique group told me my writing was good, a confirmation that fanned the flame. It was there I met two of my favorite authors, one of whom read my work and encouraged me to continue, an endorsement that fed the fire. It was there that I received three first place awards for my various contest entries, producing a warm glow inside that made me believe in the impossible.

That regional writers’ conference introduced me to the writing life, instructed me in how to hone my craft, and embraced me with a respect not often found in so competitive a business.  I will forever be grateful to those many professionals for taking the time to teach, to shepherd, and to encourage.

Ever wish you could find a place like that? Have you been thinking about taking the next step in your writing journey, but you’re just not sure where to start? Why not start where I did?

St. Davids Christian Writers’ Conference.

This year’s conference will be held at beautiful Grove City College in Grove City, Pennsylvania, from June 18-22.  It’s not too late to register. Simply follow the above link to find out more information, and come find your spark.

St. Davids Video