This weekend I attended the Realm Makers Conference and Expo in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This was my third time attending. Every year I feel the acceptance of this community of Christian writers, editors, and publishers of speculative fiction. And every year I come away recharged and excited to get back to writing.

This year my biggest take away is my need to eliminate distractions. Isn’t that true no matter what your occupation? In this world of social media, streaming services, and electronic devices right at your fingertips, it’s easy to get absorbed in things that have no lasting value.

My husband is an artist. He often uses the early morning while I’m still sleeping to paint. I’m not a morning person. Oftentimes I wish I were. But you have to find what works for you, and what I’ve found is I’m an afternoon writer.

I’m laughing at myself right now because the point I made earlier is what dictates that I write in the afternoon. My obsessive compulsive tendencies to play certain games religiously before I face the day. Telling myself that I’m keeping my brain healthy or I’m waking up my brain.

What would happen if I tried something new? That is my challenge this week. I’ve ordered noise canceling headphones, as recommended by one of the speakers at the conference, not to listen to music while I write, but to pay attention to my creative voice and the voice of the Holy Spirit.

I am fully committed to publishing my book next year. And once it is published to go back to my first manuscript and finish it. Plus I have the sequels and series to write.

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you.

Psalms 37:4-5 NLT

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

Proverbs 16:9 NIV

If we let our minds fill up with distractions, how will we hear God direct us?

I am excited to find my quiet place and listen.

Grace & Peace,

Sandy

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