I’m a writer.

This morning I sat in the dentist’s chair waiting for the Novocain to take effect. The cute little hygienist felt like talking. “So, what do you do?”

Without a moment’s hesitation, I responded: “I’m a writer.” There was no intimidation or embarrassment, no fear, just a solid answer.

My confidence startled me. I’ve never said that before! I have been a published author for nine months and have never told anyone I’m a writer. Usually my what-do-you-do answer is all about the kids. “I’m a stay-at-home mom. I love scrapbooking!” Eventually, if the questioner keeps probing, I stammer a quick “I like to write when the kids are napping.” But today, I didn’t even think about it. I didn’t falter. It was clear and spoken: I am a writer.

I’ve hesitated in the past because of personal doubts. Am I any good? Is this really what I should be doing with my time? What is this person going to think if I claim to be something I’m not sure I am? Not any more. Let me tell you why.

Last week was the Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference in North Carolina. I was fortunate to attend. It was an amazing experience! I highly recommend it to everyone who writes. If you want to write full-time, as a hobby, or if you’re not sure what you’re doing with your writing … it doesn’t matter. You’ve got to go. If not this conference, go to another one like it. In five short days my life as a writer was solidified. God used this week to affirm His call on me and my writing. I’m not intimidated anymore. I’m not scared or playing “catch-up”. I am right where God wants me — and sure of it! I was encouraged and challenged. It was an amazing experience.

So what is a writers conference? Well, it is many things. First and foremost, it is where people in publishing come together: writers, editors, agents, publishers, publicists. Everyone rubs shoulders, gathers in worship (at Christian conferences), shares meals and fellowship. Secondly, there are classes. The bigger the conference, the more classes there are available. This conference has around 400 people in attendance. Third, there are opportunities to meet one-on-one with people in the industry. As a writer, you can pitch ideas to them and see if they are interested in your projects. It’s a way of skipping the “slush” pile and getting tips on your work from the experts. Finally, it’s a break. It’s dedicated, undivided attention for your writing. You all know about my life. With two young kids, home, family and church responsibilities, I don’t get many days to focus on just my writing. My time and energies are deeply divided. Removing all those interruptions allowed me to hear that still, small Voice and know His purposes for my writing. It offered validity to this passion and confirmation of my calling.

Whether or not you’re a writer, doubts may plague you. You may wonder why you’re doing what your doing, if you should be doing it at all. You may wonder about your value. I can’t answer your doubts, but I know the One who can.

Take time to escape every day life. Close out all distractions until you can hear Him and know Him. When you find Him, go to where He is. Then you need not worry about anything else. It doesn’t matter if I’m a good writer or not, because being good is not my job. Obeying God and doing what He tells me to do, that’s my job. I want to do it to the very best of my ability, but the results are in His hands. It’s not my responsibility to get published or make people like me or my work. If that’s what God wants, He’ll take care of it. I just have to make sure I’m ready for whatever He is going to do. Ready and waiting, I’ll watch. It’s sure to be a great show! And the same is true for you. Be the best parent you can be. God will take care of the kids. Be the best administrative assistant you can. God will offer you favor in the eyes of your boss, if that’s what He wants. The results are not up to us — they’re up to God. All we need to do is obey.

So, you may be wondering what the results were of my conference. Well, they are the lesser of my concerns — My first priority is to stay in the center of God’s will — but I will tell you: two publishers have requested book proposals. I also received invitations to query a number of magazines with articles. It’s very exciting! I have no idea where this will go, but … God does.