How Not to Lead a Writing Workshop
by Lisa Christine

My least favorite subject in high school was public speaking. There were no tests, but that does not mean the class didn't keep me awake at night. I said a minimum amount of "ums" during my class presentations, but I was nervous. My teacher praised my topic ideas although he said I needed to look at the audience instead of gazing down at the podium. Now many years later, I was asked to be a presenter at a library's writing workshop. I was flattered, excited, and worried at the same time.

The public library planned to hold a free workshop complete with music, food, a poetry reading, and activities for adults and children. My part of the workshop was to show kids how poetry can be fun. In the weeks that followed I submitted a proposal for the workshop in which children would use hands-on activities to enlighten and inspire them into the world of poetry. After the library staff granted its approval, I researched the history of poetry and techniques for leading successful workshops. I then wrote and practiced my talk out loud in front of a mirror days before the event.

On the day of the workshop, I felt prepared and poised, once I gave my apprehension to the Lord and held onto the fact that He is concerned about me, thoughts found in 1 Peter 5:7: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you" (NIV). I breathed peacefully knowing that the Lord would be with me at the podium.

This peace and worry-free attitude lasted until I got to the library. Nerves began to flood my stomach again as I struggled to recall my speech, even though I had my rainbow-colored index cards nearby. I deeply breathed out, reminding myself that God was in my mist and that it was not His intent for me to fail, but succeed (Proverbs 16:3).

The workshop coordinator had assured me earlier that she would be in charge of publicity but all my preparation was for naught. To my shock, her only efforts to advertise were to hang a poster on the library bulletin board. No one showed up for the workshop except one adult, and he came an hour late.

I was relieved and disappointed, but I did not let my feelings show. I wanted to appear professional even though the situation wasn't. Not only was there a lack of audience members, there was no music, as the performer had gotten lost. Donuts and juice were available, however. Once I realized I was no longer needed, I calmly left as the coordinator thanked me for coming. On the way home, I wasn't as calm, talking to God non-stop asking Him why this happened. Was all that work for nothing? I didn't receive an audible answer. I did feel better telling God my feelings and learning what to do if ever I'm in a similar situation again.

Before You Agree to Lead

• Pray and see if God gives you peace about this opportunity. Use James 1:5-8 as a guide.
   
• Verify what is expected of you.
   
• Determine the level of commitment required and see if your schedule can handle it.
   
• Discover the purpose of the workshop and what supplies and visual aids you will have access to.
   
• Ask what venues for publicizing your writing is available/acceptable. Find out if there will be an area to place your business cards or publications.

Once You Say Yes

• Check with the coordinator a few days before the event to verify what’s been done.
   
• You may choose to do your own promotion or collaborate with the workshop coordinator. Offer to spread the word to friends and fellow writers. Other avenues include local newspapers, radio stations, bookstores, college English departments, writers groups, cafés, home schooling groups, schools, community centers, and your blog or website.
   
• Prepare and practice. Write your talk and then rehearse the speech out loud. Revise if necessary.
   
• Most importantly have fun.

Focus on the Future

While I was not able to face my fear of public speaking that day, I did learn more about poetry, the importance of publicity, and how not to lead a writing workshop.

I learned another lesson that goes beyond my life as a writer: the importance of faith. I was voluntarily listening to fear instead of totally trusting God. Having butterflies in my stomach was not a testament of my faith in the Lord. When I find myself in future public speaking endeavors, I have to choose whom I will listen to and whom I will ignore: fear or faith. Regardless if I am speaking to an audience of none, one, or more than one, I gladly will grab tightly to the assurance that our faithful God will not leave our side.