Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference 2016 – Nine years and counting and I keep coming back. There’s just something about Ridgecrest and this special week in May that is a continual draw. Every year is a discovery and I always leave knowing I have learned something new and valuable. Yes, from the classes, workshops and devotions.

But also from the people: from the faculty to the numerous and friendly volunteers and from the first time newbie to the veteran agent.  I also learn something about myself each time I come. This year’s lesson? I’m holding on too tightly to my comfort zone. I wimped out this year. Ouch. Honesty can be painful.

The conference is and always will be a stretch for me. I’m not an extrovert and by the end of the week, I am totally needing my quiet time. But even with this stretching, I have been carving out my own safe path. Wondering why too many classes sound familiar. Duh. I’ve been sticking to the same topics.

Time to branch out into new territory. Face up to the social media and marketing end of the business. Choose some classes that wouldn’t normally draw  my attention. On the plus side, I did choose more “down” time this year and actually spent time in the beautiful new coffee shop. Which led to a lovely conversation with Becky Gansky and Latan Roland Murphy. Becky, you encouraged me in my current status as a newbie pastor’s wife. And Latan, I love your profession of interior decorating and how God is using you to minister in that area. Beautiful.

As I think over this year’s conference, I am prepping for next year, determined to make some changes. And yes, to walk with confidence out of my comfort zone. I pray we will all return with a renewed confidence and determination to allow God to use this writing gift He has placed within us.

Are you already planning for next year’s conference? Is there something you would do differently?

Will you step out of your comfort zone?