I just returned from the Florida Christian Writers' Conference in Bradenton, FL. I taught the Teen Track, and the 16 students and I had a blast. In our "After Hours" session, we did a critique group session that lasted almost four hours. Some of the students were laughing so hard, they cried.
I was very impressed with the writing talent of several of these kids. Based on feedback from magazine editors, I think at least six of them will have articles published within the year. An 18-year-old young man is writing a fantasy novel. His imagination and descriptions are superb. Four young ladies who have become close friends because of the Internet are going to collaborate on an article about Internet friendships. Another young lady had an article on her hero, her little sister, and two editors indicated a strong interest in buying it. This girl also won the conference's poetry award for submitting the best poetry. Although she was only 17-years-old, her poetry demonstrated the insight of someone three times her age.
I pray that these young writers will take the inspiration they gained in our workshops and continue in the writing field. They are wonderfully talented.
The poet I mentioned wrote a note to me before we parted. I trust that she won't mind my sharing it with you. You will see why these young people were such a blessing to me.
I travel the path of faith
Searching for reason I often lose track
Of the footprints from those before me
And when I stumble upon hesitation
I search for a hand to guide me on
And he gives me wonders
Miracles, like you
Brilliant souls which he speaks through
His words are your thoughts
You are the light with his guidance
And with such faith I will not turn back
He reveals to me footprints
And he gives me wonders
Miracles, like you
5 comments:
This conference has truely renewed my desire to wright, and opened up countless avenues by which to do so. I didn't fully realize your devotion to the program Mr. Davis, until last night when you remained standing as one of the most permanent participans in the event. Thank you for devoting so much time and preparation into the teen track and for allowing us to run our ideas past you. Such a humble service before the Lord has already saved my dream and given every one of us new courage to face the perils of the publishing world. ; )
Veneficus,
I'm glad to hear how positively the conference affected you. I know you'll do well.
Now get that broom and sweep your way to publication! (Conference joke)
It's great that you take the time to mentor younger writers. I can't get away too much because I have a special needs child, but I do what I can here. I'm teaching fiction techniques to a 6th grade class where my husband teaches school. I'm having a blast.
I wish I could have gone. I'm glad everyone had a good time.
Sounds like an excellent conference and a grand time with the teens. I just had a wonderful mentoring experience too--with my 12-year old son. I got to coach him on a short story which turned out terrific. We had a blast. I never knew mentoring kids--particularly my son--was so much fun! I've got to do this more often. No wonder you had a great time. :)
Brandy of The Building Brows
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