Oh, the She Speaks Conference by Proverbs 31 Ministries. Where to begin?
I have been to this conference twice over the years. The first year was right after God reignited my desire to write. I went with high hopes, and wasn't disappointed. The writers' critique wasn't as bad as I thought, and the classes were great. I pitched two book ideas to two different editors, and was well received. That kind of opportunity is rare. All I know is that it was amazing!
I couldn't afford to go the next year, as I'd just had a preemie in NICU. But last year I went again. This time I took the Leadership track, hoping it would be of some help to our women's ministry director at my home church, Pinnacle Church. Again, the classes and teachers were top-notch.
That's where I took a blogging class, taught by the beautiful Marybeth Whalen, and after the conference, this blog was launched. It has blessed me beyond measure, and my prayer is that others are blessed by it as well.
The Next Generation track for youth girls is just an amazing idea, and I'm so glad they started it. If I had daughters, I would have them there for sure! I hope that program flourishes. There's such a need for it.
Even though I wasn't in the writer's track, I met with another editor last year, and was also well received. I was pleasantly surprised at the speed of her response to me after the conference was over. I hope that if I make it this year, I will have a finished product to share! (Pray for that please?!)
Last year's conference came at a very stressful time for me. My five year old had been diagnosed with heart murmurs, and we were waiting for our cardiologist appointment. I tried so hard not to let Satan steal my joy, and for the most part he didn't. This conference is a place full of fun, laughter, and our Lord! It really is a place to "refresh," and was just what the Great Physician ordered for me.
One of the most memorable part of She Speaks was Lysa's "real me" presentation last year, when she came out with no makeup, hair pulled back, in her comfy clothes. She shared her testimony, and it was so powerful. I don't think I'll ever forget it.
Real people, real life, real God. That's what Proverbs 31 Ministries is all about.
So, that's my She Speaks story. I love this conference! It is so uplifting. The time may be packed with classes and events, but it is so valuable. These ladies at Proverbs 31 truly want to bring God's peace, perspective and purpose to today's woman. If you are reading this and have any desire to speak, write, or lead, I hope you will prayerfully consider attending this conference. It's worth every penny.
That's why I'd like to win the scholarship. I need to go see my Proverbs 31 girls!
And speaking of pennies, go here for a chance to win a scholarship to She Speaks 2008!
To learn more about the conference and to register, click the She Speaks button in my sidebar...
The more I read all the people trying to win the trip, the more I want to go! Everyone who has been has been super encouraging about the benefit!
ReplyDeleteI'm just glad I don't have to pick the winner!
Jen
Oh, you made my heart beat faster reading about the conference. I hope to meet you there!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your She Speaks experience, it sounds very exciting and like it has enabled you to be well rounded in various areas of ministry. Blessings on your book proposal!
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