When Words Fall Short, Use Other’s… {Quotes from #Relevant11}

November 14th, 2011

Finding words is hard at times.  Even good words.  

No matter how long I chew on my thoughts, compose in my mind, my words seem to fall short of explaining the impact, the emotion, the way my heart has been changed.

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I’m continuing to unpack the things I want to take away from this year’s Relevant Conference. {Stomach bugs have the tendency of giving you a quick jolt back to reality, and force you to put everything else on the back burner.} 

However, it was so refreshing and motivating to be surrounded with so many lovely faces…

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…who are passionate about Christ, who are in their element, and who are ministering to so many through their written words.

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The speakers were remarkable and not afraid to expose their own imperfections, and struggles. {And willing to show their not so serious side too!}

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And my roommate, Amanda, was such an encouragement to my heart.

But my words just don’t cut it…so I’ll leave you with THEIR words, instead.  These words were fresh to my soul like the blanket of snow that covered everything outside.  I hope they will bless you as well…

"God appoints people who disappoint to point to the God who doesn’t disappoint." – Ann Voskamp

“Creativity births courage. It comes after, not before.” – Emily Freeman

“My identity lies in Who’s I am.” – Ann Voskamp

“Life is not an emergency. Life’s a gift.” – Ann Voskamp

“Sometimes the most loving thing we can do when we disagree with someone is to love them enough to speak the truth in love, but behind closed doors. We have to be willing to stand for truth, but to do so in love and with grace…We need to have the courage to speak to one another, instead of about one another. ” – Joy Forney

“How am I serving Jesus in ways only He knows about?” – Ann Voskamp

“What is the greatest hindrance keeping you from getting real? Are you willing to be your real messy self? The one who doesn’t have it all together? Are you willing to ask for help when you need it and be honest about your struggles?” – Joy Forney

“Christians are never to be about applause, only about altars. Are we building a platform or building a Kingdom?” – Ann Voskamp

“Success is simply obedience and servant hood, right where you are.” – Ann Voskamp

“Stop worrying about the people who aren’t at your table. Feed the people who are.” – Lisa-Jo

“Being humble is not being insecure, thinking everyone else is better than you. Humility means bowing our hearts to God.” – Holly Gerth

{I’ve linked the blogs in each quote, so be sure to check them out for more encouraging words!}

I also want to take this opportunity to thank the AMAZING sponsors of the Relevant Conference.  The Seed Company, (in)courage, Focus on the Family, Zondervan, Money Saving Mom, Revell Books, Bright Ideas Press, Operation Christmas Child, About One, What’s in the Bible, Family Matters, Red Letter Words, B&H Publishing, Yancy Not Nancy, Free Set, The Vintage Pearl, and Color Inc Pro Lab.  {Did I miss anyone? Because you were ALL amazing!} Thank you for investing in our community and for all you do to encourage our walks with Christ!

Also, an heart felt thank you to the founders of the conference that work all year to bring this conference together: Sarah Mae, Dana, and Jessica! (Pictured above holding the Relevant blocks.)

Next year, you are ALL coming in my suitcase with me! Deal?