Guest Post by Laurel Thomas: THE WORLD and YOUR WORDS

Not that many weeks ago, I created a refuge for writers in my imagination.

You might remember when I described it in a newsletter. There were shelves of books, cozy seating for conversation, and snacks. Really good snacks. And coffee.

The picture was so clear in my mind, that I immediately searched out potential venues and was sure that a coffee shop for creatives was my new mission.

Enter reality.

Yuck.

I was so sad. Sad that what I dreamed was impossible for a seventy-something woman with real life restraints.

I didn’t quit writing. I never stopped building community with other writers. That was all good.

After all, maybe my dream was only the result of being home-bound with a bum foot for far too long.

Then, I went to an amazing conference with an amazing woman named Janice Buswell. The Experience Writing Conference, 2025 was all about creating a refuge for the writer’s heart.

I’d never heard of an event like that.

All the better reason to jump on board with my young pioneer friend and minister my heart out to a group of fabulous writers.

The two day event became a sanctuary in every way. There was encouragement and affirmation in a welcoming atmosphere. Lies that tethered our creative hearts lost their hold and freedom came in unexpected ways.

Did I mention that the food was delicious, too?

My lightning-quick mind had a thought this morning.

Okay. Several thoughts.

I have a venue nearby. I could build a community of refuge for writers one night every month. No commitment necessary. Just an openness and hunger to be healed, to be convinced, to know that you were born to paint this world with your words.

I’m still ironing out details.

But isn’t it amazing that my dream wasn’t dashed, after all? It just existed in perimeters I hadn’t considered.

My heart is to offer a place that affirms you. A place where you can ask questions, share a snippet of your work, and even receive a prayer – knowing that the Creator Himself is on your side.

I’m not sure how all this will work.

Isn’t that wonderful?

It’s a call to adventure. I have my floaties, a pair of goggles, and am ready to leap. Actually, this is a waterproof event, but you get the idea.

What about you?

I’m not the only one who dreams. I’m not the only one who feels that those dreams were dashed by the shouts of a busy life, limited to terra firma.

Don’t we need a place – at least once a month – that reminds us that we aren’t limited? Not really, anyway.

We just need eyes to see a fresh venture and a heart to shout back with a resounding YES.

That’s the plan, anyway.

I’ll be keeping you in touch! I’d love to hear from you.

Writing my heart out and thinking about you~
Laurel