This Weekend & The Letter

Before I begin re-capping my amazing weekend, I need to say, "thank you." In response to last Thursday's post, I received so many kind and encouraging comments both here and on the Peace it all Together Facebook and Instagram pages. The confidence you showed in me was overwhelming, in a good way. I am extremely grateful to know all of you and to have such wonderful friends and readers.

THE VIEW JUST OUTSIDE OUR HOTEL

A BAYWATCH MOMENT

This weekend, I was stretched beyond what I could've ever imagined. If you would have asked me even one year ago if I could have pictured myself on a stage, mic in hand, speaking in front of 500 people, I might have actually laughed in your face. This is not my gift, public speaking. It terrifies me. Yet, I cannot explain to you in words the energy I felt just being around so many faithful women and reading to them the words of encouragement that the Holy Spirit had entrusted to me.  

FRIDAY NIGHT, BEFORE WALKING INTO DOWNTOWN HUNTINGTON BEACH

Before I get to the many life lessons I learned this weekend I must tell you that my husband is truly incredible. He not only supported this wild and crazy idea I had to travel approximately 250 miles to speak for two minutes, but he created a weekend getaway out of it. We left Friday and returned Sunday and sincerely enjoyed our time together.

THE WHOLE GROUP - ABOUT 450 WOMEN

The event was Saturday morning. We got to the church early and, as a sat in the car waiting for time to go inside, my confidence continued to plummet. I actually contemplated staying in the car. Fortunately, my hubby gave me a little tough love and basically kicked me out of the car.

Meeting Jennifer Smith and her husband, Aaron, was an incredible experience. They put us to work immediately, unloading all the goodies from their car. It was the perfect distraction from my nerves and made us feel like we had known them much longer than thirty seconds.

The event began, after prayer and preparations were complete. Jennifer spoke first and I was again in awe of her story of transformation from pain and darkness in marriage. The theme of her message was Shine. About being a light in the darkness of this world and our own community. Although I shouldn't have been, I was impressed the how God works. I have been hearing and reflecting on this type of message so much lately.

...in darkness you can't flourish and thrive

...light is attractive

O Lord, you are my lamp. The Lord lights up my darkness. 

2 Samuel 22:29 (NLT)

The scars you share become lighthouses for other people who are headed to the same rocks you hit. 

- Jon Acuff

After Jen's message, it was time. I would swear that the people sitting next to me could both hear and feel my heart beating. There were seven of us who read letters. All the letters were so different, yet each was spoken from the heart and was clearly inspired by God to speak to the diverse group of women who attended the event. My letter was meant to encourage the weary wife. All letters will be posted on the Unveiled Wife site this week, beginning today with my letter. I encourage you to read them all.

JENNIFER WITH ALL THE LADIES WHO READ THEIR LETTERS AT THE EVENT

PHOTO MY HUBBY TOOK FROM THE BACK OF THE AUDITORIUM

Although I am still not convinced that you couldn't hear the shakiness in my voice as I read my letter, my husband - who wasn't supposed to be watching - assures me that I sounded great and that my nerves were not evident. Honestly, when it was all over, I felt proud. That I had conquered some serious fears. That I had gotten through the letter without getting emotional. But, mostly, I was proud that I had answered a call from God.

It was clear that He wanted me there. I was a minister and I was ministered to. I met new friends and got to spend a beautiful weekend at the beach with my husband. I was energized in the presence of so many godly women and by the idea that there is so much more that God has planned for me (more on that later :))

Blessings to you this week! And...thanks again for all of your support. Without this blog, and all of you who faithfully read my ramblings, this opportunity would not have been possible.