Who's Stalking Me at a Writer's Conference?

Have you ever felt like someone is stalking you? Like everywhere you go, you sense you are being followed and you catch glimpses of something out of every corner of every eye you've got? 

I think I've got myself a stalker. 

God has been on my tail and I cannot shake him. 

It's a great feeling.

Last weekend I attended my first-ever speaking/writing conference called Speak Up. It was pretty amazing. Much like being positioned directly in front of a fire hydrant that is suddenly cranked wide open. There was no way I was picking up all that was being thrown down. 

But I tried. I soaked up the main sessions, I squeezed in the breakout sessions, I swapped notes with friends so we could cover more workshops. My pen was gasping for air. 

And guess what my Stalker whispered in my ear day after day. 

Keep writing. 

Don't compare yourself with anyone else who writes, YOU write. 

This comparison conversation has been going on between God and I for the past three years. Apparently I don't listen as well as I wish my children did.

In one breakout session we were asked the question:
       Would you rather be a second rate her OR a first rate you?
      Would you rather be a second rate Beth Moore or a first rate Carissa?

I think the correct answer is a first rate Carissa. Unless your name is something other than Carissa.

Anyone else tempted to compare themselves to amazing women who are already doing what you wish you were doing? Gosh, me too. 

We see talented, confident women popping up everywhere. Whenever we scroll through Facebook, meander through Barnes and Noble, stand in line in the grocery aisle and catch up on People.

My dear Stalker knew I needed one more reminder to do what I have been called to do, the way I have been programed to do it. I need to write like Carissa.

Do you need that reminder? 

What have you been called to do? Speak up? Write down? 
Parent? Lead? Create? Serve?

Be inspired by those talented, confident women, but be you. 

Wherever you go, whatever you do, 
       Keep writing like you.
               Keep your flavor.

Or maybe the Great Stalker will have to take you to a powerful conference and remind you. 

Then again, it might be worth the stalking.


See these pretty ladies? They were also at the Speak Up conference and have some great things to say about it. Check out their posts as well!