Meeting Beverly Lewis

Tonight I met Beverly Lewis, one of the biggest names in Christian Fiction today.

Beverly was warm hearted and soft spoken as she shared her passion for writing, music and her family. Her current book, The Fiddler, combines all three of those passions. I can't wait to read it!

When she spoke about her writing, my heart was tugged and I found myself close to tears. I love hearing authors talk, whether in person or online, and hear them echo the same words that are in my heart. Before I started pursuing this dream, I had never met anyone else who I could relate to on such a heart level. Now I realize I am not alone on this journey. There are countless others who have the same calling on their life. It encourages me to keep looking for connections and to build relationships with other authors.

After she spoke about her work she opened up for questions. I sat there wondering what I could ask. I have a thousand questions burning in my mind, but I know I can only ask one. Which one is more important than the others? So I raised my hand and simply asked: "What is your best advice for an aspiring author?"

Beverly thought for a moment and then she gave me five tips:

1. Read and write as much as you can.
2. Join a critique group.
3. Attend a conference, meet editors and find out what they are looking for.
4. Write from the heart.

5. Spend a great deal of time in prayer.

When she mentioned prayer, it struck a cord with me. I can never attempt to follow a calling on my life if I don't first bathe it in prayer. Writing a book is not for the faint of heart, nor should it be taken lightly. Words are powerful tools and should be chosen with great care. This is a piece of advice I will always remember.

I was one of four people whose names were drawn to win a free book! I won the first book in Annie's People Series and I had Beverly sign it for me. When it was my turn in line she asked me about my writing and I became star struck! I couldn't believe it. I was nervous to talk with her face to face. I haven't been that nervous since speech class in high school! :) I did manage to choke out a reply and she smiled and asked my name so she could sign my book. She said she loved my name and it will be perfect on the cover of a book.

Tonight was more than I expected. I'm so happy I was able to meet Beverly Lewis and get a glimpse into her life and her writing. She is a sweet woman who has used her gift to bless thousands of people throughout the world. Amazing. It was an experience I will never forget.