Dream Big

I’ve been to a writer’s conference and missed my usual Monday posting deadline. But I learned a lot while I was gone. In fact, I stuck my toe in some deep waters. I leaned out of the boat, wanting to jump in. However, something in me was hesitant. Something wanted to wait until I was a little more ready before I jumped in.

At the conference, I took several classes to improve my writing skills and several to improve my public speaking skills. But I was too shy to share my stories, either written or spoken, with those in the classes.

In order to accomplish much, I have to dream big. I must act on what I can do right now and build on that. Nobody walks very far if they’re staring at their toes. Look at the horizon with me and see where it takes us.

I was dreaming big at the writer’s conference, but I needed a little encouragement to share. A woman asked me to be her critique partner and help her see her novel from a fresh set of eyes and a different perspective. I jumped at the chance to exchange our chapters for critique.

This was an opportunity I’d wanted for too long. Finally, I could relax in my new relationship with this woman and give and receive encouragement on a regular basis.

Today’s goal is: Start a care group. Gather a group of friends or family members who will meet regularly to help others.

Your group might be three or four friends who take turns helping out one family from your church or neighborhood. After some time, that family might feel the urge to join the group and help someone else.

Your group might be a writers’ group, a mothers’ group, a men’s prayer group, or anything else you see a need for.

You never know how your group will grow. It may grow in popularity so that it blossoms into several groups. But whatever happens, you’ll feel the thrill of seeing someone else’s face light up when they see you coming.

It will change them. But it will also change you.