March 2016

Post date: Mar 2, 2016 2:14:49 AM

This month's newsletter, written by Melissa Wiltrout:

The other day, we got a welcome preview of spring here in Wisconsin. The fresh air and the warm touch of sunshine on my face reminded me of everything I love about this season. Spring is an amazing time of change. Think about it. Over a span of mere weeks, our barren, snow-covered landscape will transform into a lush garden alive with bird and animal life. Change is exhilarating - until it touches something familiar and dear to us. Then it can seem frightening and even disheartening.

In the Old Testament, God asked Abraham to leave behind a familiar life in order to go to a land God would show him. Abraham had to choose whether he would rely on God's promises and walk forward with courage and hope, or let fear and uncertainty keep him locked into his old life.

Writing Prompt: How do you handle major changes? Do you get mired in grief over what you've lost, or can you walk forward into the unknown with hope? What have you learned that might encourage someone else? Write about it.

COMING UP: March 8, 2016 - Join us as Chuck Rupnow shares with us about fearlessness and how it has helped him in his personal and professional endeavors. Fearlessness is that necessary quality for a reporter/writer to be effective in conducting interviews, both in preparation and execution. Likewise, in the Christian life with the sword of truth and example of Jesus, we are to be fearless. Leave your insecurities (fear) at home and come hear what this award-winning reporter has for us.

FEEDBACK (CRITIQUE) OPPORTUNITY:

If you want to receive feedback on your work, come early (5:30 p.m.) to meet with others. Bring 6-8 copies of your short piece (300 words or so) for the group to read along as you share. You could bring what you’ve written in response to the prompt above, or something else you’re working on. It can be a portion of a book chapter, or a short article too.

See you at the March meeting!