Jan Penton Miller

What a wonderful writers symposium I attended last Saturday! People came from all over to spend some time learning from and sharing with other writers. I always feel that any party or get together is a success when many conversations are flowing all at once, and that was certainly the case at the symposium this year.

The speakers were insightful and challenged us to seek out time to spend on our craft. Once again, I feel as if I’ve received a shot of encouragement. I commented to one attendee from French Camp, Mississippi on the beautiful Natchez Trace that I always feel that I’m with my people when I’m surrounded by other “Wordies”.

The first conference I attended was in Tuscaloosa, AL many years ago. I always love attending the Southern Christian Writers Conference there, and each time I leave inspired and encouraged to use my writing for God’s glory. I know that each article isn’t full of wisdom, but the occasions when a reader reaches out and shares how something I have shared touched and encouraged them, I know that my little scribblings have accomplished what I could only hope.

Writing a memoir is one easy way to get started with sharing your own story for future generations. Many people who may feel they have no writing ability may be quite surprised when they sit down to a blank page or computer screen and the words start to flow.

I always tell people to think of speaking to a friend and write down what you would share. Don’t worry about the grammar or even how it sounds at first. It’s always best to be transparent and don’t try to make youir life appear perfect as if you’re posing for a picture to post on social media. Don’t edit out the real life you have lived and the challenges you have overcome.

We all have challenges, and we all have a story. The parts that we may want to edit out are many times the very things that encourage another soul who may be going through something similar. One sweet woman at the symposium this year had written about finding her way later in life after alcohol problems sent her down dark paths.

She was an absolutely lovely person who shared these personal things in an attempt to help others. She found her strength by getting to know God in a deeper way and leaning on Him. Prayer and Bible study made her life so much better and richer so she set out to tell others about what Christ had done for her.

I know everyone isn’t called to write, but just sharing with a friend who may be struggling may be life changing for him or her. None of us wake up with makeup on and looking beautiful every morning, and not one person always has it all together. The very things we may want to hide could encourage another not to give up.