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What many have to say about the benefits of AWSA...

The benefit to AWSA? How much time do you have? :) Since its inception I have benefited by being connected with other women who live and understand the writing/speaking life and passions. These are fellow women who love this ministry work as much as I do. Yet this fall I realized the depth and power of the love of God and his grace in my life through the prayers and compassion of this amazing group of women. After severe childbirth complications put me into a coma for two months during which time I almost died twice, the members of AWSA held a day of prayer and fasting for my healing. The doctors told my family to come in and say their good-byes to me at about the same time that AWSA held their day of prayer--- against all odds I pulled through. They all also blessed us financially during a difficult time, ministered to my family, and orchestrated a cross-country baby shower for our new baby while I was in the hospital.

I love these women... Yes, they are my professional colleagues, but they are so much more. They were prayer warriors in the fight for my life and were the hands and feet of Jesus' love. -- Lindsey O Connor

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One of the many AWESOME benefits of being in AWSA is the prayer partnership and encouragement that arrives DAILY through our loop.
We also pick up oodles of professional tips and help each other in our writing projects. Recently when I couldn't fulfill some Christmas speaking events due to a broken leg, I called on my AWSA sisters and they were excellent professional fill-ins, eager to help at the last minute. That's just one of many examples of how I count on support from my sisters.
Lucinda Secrest McDowell

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Now we know the women whose names we've seen on books at CBA or who have shared an autograph booth with us. Through our email loop we support each other with daily encouragement and prayer. We understand each other's needs because we've all been there. And there's nothing like speaking to a group of people in a strange town and seeing a fellow AWSA'er in the audience. In short, AWSA is family. -- Martha Bolton

*****

The benefit of AWSA:
friends who understand me!!!
Encouragement and accountability
Insights and practical help for career/ministry growth and excellence
wonderful conference
safety net for our families (many AWSA sisters have provided practical help to other sisters in need-- and we never know when it may be our turn to be in need!)
prayer support
something to read nearly everyday when I want to procrastinate on a book deadline (like now!)
a sounding board for tough situations
someone to rejoice in victories who doesn't think I am bragging but will truly be happy with me and someone of quality to pinch hit when the planes are grounded by the FAA (it is nice to have so many quality speaker friends I can recommend to leaders!)
Books at discount-- no seriously, I love also endorsing books, helping others, I love to give as much as I love all that I receive!
Appreciate you all!
Pam Farrel

*****

Writing and speaking are unusual callings for a woman, and in our churches and communities, we are often without understanding and support. Just as pastors, teachers, and other professions find strength, kinship, and improved skill through networking, I have found that in AWSA. Beyond that, writing can be a particularly
lonely occupation for several reasons: God often chooses to teach the writer a difficult lesson before setting the pen in her hand; finding the proper venue to send the message to the intended target can be tricky and disappointing. AWSA has enabled me to understand God's working in my life and determine how best to reach the ears of those who are aching for the word of comfort and help God has given
me to deliver. On the flip side, there are some publishers who routinely treat their writers in a shabby fashion. Fellow AWSA members have given me the "heads up" on a couple of occasions so I can avoid unscrupulous publishers and agents. And the prayer support and encouragement has been invaluable!
Rebekah Montgomery

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The ability to have honest conversations about our ministries and to have a place with knowledgeable people who can respond to questions we may have. The fellowship of others who understand our ups and downs with publishers and meeting planners, and are willing to listen and love when we complain, and jump and cheer when we rejoice. Just knowing that there are others out there who are experiencing some of the same frustrations, loneliness, fears, hopes and dreams as you.
Betty Southard

*****

The benefits have been immeasurable. From the listserve to the conference, I have learned so much that has helped me as an author and speaker. But more than that, I have found a group of friends who understand why I do what I do. My friends in AWSA cheerlead each other and encourage and lift one another up as God calls us to do what none of us feel equipped to do. I don't how many times I have received an e-mail just at the right moment from a fellow AWSA sister. I love this group!
T. Suzanne Eller (Suzie)

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Benefits of AWSA membership:

AWSA membership gives authors the opportunity to mentor and to be mentored by other authors who have faced similar challenges and triumphed. The networking and support system that is in place is incredible. This includes prayer support, book endorsements, and research tips. AWSA also offers educational/inspirational opportunities and opportunities for friendship at our conferences.

As the profile of ASWA grows and becomes more known and respected, our membership becomes more and more valuable. AWSA also offers radio exposure opportunities, and contributing story opportunities for book projects.
Jennie Afman Dimkoff

*****

Dear Linda,

Through the AWSA directory, the radio program "Focus on the Family" contacted me and expressed some interest in hearing both my testimony and my workshop presentation on learning styles. Both audio tapes are now being reviewed for possible broadcast. Our Lord does open doors!

Blessings,
Diane Bisson

*****

An endless opportunity to learn from others' experiences, develop friendships, enjoy camaraderie, and share life's joys and its sorrows.

Kari West

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For me, the benefits include new friendships formed, Christian prayer support, and updated information on writing/speaking/websites/networking--what works for others.
Probably most of all is that AWSA is a great place for encouragement and support for all of us who write and speak. Whether we contribute to the loop often or not, AWSA still gives us that place to belong--and the banquet/retreats at CBA are worth it all.

Thanks to all who are involved in the center of AWSA plans, and especially to Linda for undertaking such a gigantic endeavor.

Rebecca Barlow Jordan

*****

AWSA is a caring conduit to connect authors with each other and with an awesome God. It is the vehicle to voice our questions, concerns, and comments about the "writing-and-speaking-life" and to foster a Spirit-filled camaraderie with the only ones who understand. It is a "pipeline" for confidentiality and a "lifeline" for commitment. It has been a much-needed source for both information and inspiration.

I sit in a kind of cave all day, alone with my thoughts, alone with my words. But when I link hearts with the "Ladies of the Loop" and my words mingle with theirs, I take heart because these women give me strength and perspective. AWSA has become both a sounding board and a sanctuary--a place to be vulnerable and a place to rise
victorious in what is, generally speaking, a solitary and difficult pursuit. AWSA has given authors credibility in CBA and a platform for excellence. In a word, AWSA is an answer to prayer and a prayer, itself, that we, its members, may be worthy of His calling.
--Lynn D. Morrissey

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For me there's been dozens of writing/speaking leads, service opportunities to help other authors through submission to their compilations, cutting edge news on the publishing industry, new friendships, and spiritual nurture from like-minded women.
Brenda Nixon

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Linda Shepherd has been a wonderful mentor and encourager to new writers like myself. She has provided opportunities to some of us to get our works published by a major publisher through group projects. This could open doors for us in the future. It is also great to share prayer requests with other writers. MK Henderson

*****

The benefit for me in AWSA membership is, frankly, fellowship with understanding. I had been very lonely as a writer/speaker for some time and had been praying about it. When Linda and I spoke a long time ago in Colorado about her vision for this organization, I knew God had answered my prayers. I treasure the privilege to relate
daily to women I so admire for their faith, excellence and persistence in a tough ministry, their unabashed frankness (with love), and their sacrificial service to Jesus Christ in countless ways. Thank you, Linda, for being obedient to the vision God gave you. :):)
Virelle Kidder

*****

The benefit of being a member of AWSA means this to me:
A strong sense of community with women championing the same mission.
A place to glean valuable information about navigating the business of ministry.
A family of believers that can come together to be the hands and feet of Jesus when one of it's members faces life altering circumstances.
Jane Jarrell

*****

Blessed with new friendships and prayers of Christian sisters.
Blessed by the sharing of knowledge of others
Encouraged when I am feeling discouraged
Strengthened when I am feeling weak
Every day I look forward to hearing from my AWSA sisters. I rejoice when they succeed, I pray for them when they are tempted and tested, and I try to encourage them the same way they encourage me.
Teresa Kindred

*****

AWSA has provided a sense of community and commonality as speakers and writers while we serve the Lord. It is such joy to share one another's joys and sorrows and pray for one another. It's so comforting to know that others struggle with many of the same challenges in ministry.
Judy Hampton

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Linda,

AWSA has shown me the path God has planned for my life. I still remember the day you invited me to join. As I fell asleep that night, bewildered at the invitation, not feeling worthy of the call, I thanked God for the new opportunity to grow.

I continue to thank God daily for the privilege of friendship with committed Christian women facing the same challenges and needs. The seasoned ladies are so generous and patient with me as I ask question after question while still trying to figure out how to write a sentence that is grammatically correct!

Truly, Linda's vision has become a shining example of the body of Christ at work in the world. Each enabling another to fulfill her work for the Kingdom.

Hallelujah. Amen! -- Jill Rigby

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*****

The greatest benefit has been for me to have the opportunity to meet other writer's and speaker's. Being a speaker means I don't get to attend many retreats. Getting to know such AWSome women has been such a blessing.

I also have benefited greatly from the many tips about agents, table decorations, web sites, etc. on the loop.

Praying for each other is also a great blessing. -- Carole Lewis

*****

AWSA introduced me to the numerous Christian authors/speakers. I would not have guessed there were so many. I learned about the loop during a sabbatical and a season of illness so reading the postings charged my writing wires while also granting me a peek into the hearts, struggles and victories of other writers and sisters in Christ. I view AWSA as a practical, informational, and spiritual resource.
Thank you, Linda,
Niki Anderson

*****

Greetings from sunny Florida!
RE: BENEFITS OF BELONGING TO AWSA

I am very grateful for AWSA. The Bible says, "...the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David" (1 Samuel 18:1), making them "knitted souls" (my words). That's how I feel about the members of AWSA--we are knitted souls. That's kinda' like Anne of Green Gables's "kindred spirits," only much, much better--and biblical besides! AWSA, I love ya in 2003--the year to agree!

Blessings! Kristy Dykes

*****

Besides the friendship, prayer support and encouragement, we provide accountability to one another. In a business that demands that we promote our books and ourselves as speakers, we remind each other frequently that "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.... It is the Lord Christ you are serving" (Colossians 3:23, 24). --Janet Holm McHenry

*****

AWSA lets us connect women-to-women with those who are serious about their ministry and intentional about their walk before God. But it's the open sharing, the commitment to pray for one another, the warmth and the transparency that really mark our group. It's been fun to watch a synergy develop that's led to big ideas and even bigger projects. Wendy Lawton
--
Wendy Lawton

*****

One of the greatest benefits of being part of AWSA is the opportunity to meet other women who share your passion. I've been challenged to pursue excellence because of the example of these ladies, and strengthened through the fellowship they give. Renee Scheidt

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Being a member of AWSA has given me a group of peers for the first time since I started writing and speaking full time. These women have prayed for me and cheered when I share my great news. They have cried for me and taken the load from my shoulders when it's been too much to bear. I have learned so much about writing and speaking, but I have really learned about sisterhood. Friendships with women has
always been a struggle for me and I can truly say that the AWSA ladies are special
friends.

I am amazed and honored to be a part of such a wonderful group of talented, loving, and praying group. --Carmen Leal

*****

I consider it an honor and a blessing to participate in AWSA. When you dedicate your life to serving God in a mighty way, you can plan on attacks from the enemy sometimes on a daily basis. This group of women all know that this life of service is not for the weak. We all take great comfort in knowing that we have many "sisters in the field 'with us who share the same commitment. We share our tears, and times of discouragement. But we also take comfort in knowing that with a click of the keyboard, we can request prayer support for some of life's most serious issues. From illness, a death in the family, or business advice, Our AWSA sisters are so giving of themselves and their time always remembering that above all, we
serve a mighty God! This group of women is making a difference in people's lives, whether it be thorough television, radio, conferences, or the many wonderful books we author. --Dr. Janet Maccaro PhD C.N.C

*****

We pray and miracles happen! We are mentored by those who are farther along in everything from how to get tapes duplicated to the ins and outs of working with agents. Everyone gives so freely to the group from their own experience and expertise. We are sisters on the journey. The fellowship is real, spawning many heart to heart conversations and face to face meetings. The Houston AWSA's are eating Mexican at Pappasito's next Wednesday. Join us! -- Lael Arrington

*****

1. The connection and camaraderie with other Christian speakers
2. New thoughts and information that I wouldn't otherwise get
3. A powerful prayer network
4. An overall view of the Christian speaking and writing world from
many different perspectives.
Georgia Shaffer

*****
I enjoy helping others. As a senior editor and associate literary agent, I offer a perspective from the other side of the desk. Communication and understanding are so important. I feel honored to do my part. In turn, I know I have a sisterhood I can call on anytime for help. -- Blessings, Deb Strubel

*****

AWSA has been a "God send" to me! I am a relatively new author and speaker, with my second book about to be released. At first I felt like I was totally out of my ball league and that the accomplished women in this group wouldn't be able to relate to such a rookie. But as I began to share ideas and questions and see their incredible
responses and help, I was overwhelmed. They are such a loving group of women who would do anything for each other. It is a privilege to be a member of the group. I have grown as an author, speaker, and a person by being in their company. I thank God for each one of them. -- Sherrie Eldridge

*****

AWSA has been a great network of support for a ministry that would have otherwise seemed isolated and unappreciated. Sharing technical advise such as recording equipment, phone systems has been great, sharing marketing information has been helpful, but most of all the group has increased my confidence in my calling. Knowing that the doubts I have are common to the battles we face, knowing that if we say yes to a project we have 200 like-minded women ready to contribute to the goal is an amazing source of courage. If one can put a thousand to flight, and 2 can put 10,000 to fight, consider what the unity of 200 women can do.

Thanks for your vision and faith for this loop. --Cristine Bolley

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I don't feel like such a lonesome cowgirl out here in a small western town. I've been able to network with other Christian women in writing and speaking ministries and acquire practical helps for sustaining my ministry (everything from doing book tables to opinions re web sites). I've also appreciated being part of a praying community that serious about the spiritual warfare that comes to those desiring to hold forth the Word of Life. -- Jeanne Zornes

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The benefit has been tremendous, incredible AWSA-me!

AWSA has helped my ministry take on new expressions. I have gained from the wisdom of godly women who have gone before me. I have been encouraged to step out with the ideas God has given me. I have benefited from the generous practical advice. I have bonded with many "faceless friends" across the nation through candid sharing; friends I know I can count on, and have already. Having been blessed with a literal extended life, in part through the unselfish prayers from AWSA women as I suffered a massive cardiac arrest--the leading cause of death in our country--I know I can count on them. I'm miraculously alive and able to continue the ministry work God has given me seeing it greatly extended because of my involvement with AWSA. -- Pam Christian

*****

Though I haven't been able to attend the CBA functions, I have benefited from the daily digest, especially when questions are raised about ways to deal with different issues. I am amazed at the collective information we have in this group and how willing each person is to share that info to help another succeed in the same business without fear of competitiveness I have felt a camaraderie among the group and a true sense of caring and support. The prayer loop is especially helpful to me also and I think we see peoples hearts more than their work on that loop. The digest has often prompted me to write when I didn't feel like writing when some writing opportunity is shared on the loop for short articles. I look forward to reading the digest daily. I don't do a lot of the things that many do on this loop. I may not write as much or publish as much or speak as much but I'm doing what God has placed
before me and I think that's the greatest thing we can do. I think every AWSA woman feels the same. -- Louise Tucker Jones

*****
It is, indeed, a blessing to be connected with other Christian authors and speakers who have a strong sense of mission. Our sharing and networking on the loop is often transparent. We share freely as disciples of Christ Jesus and as learners. There is a strong sense of sisterhood--never competition. I have been helped a number of times from my AWSA sisters' spiritual insights and practical information regarding writing and speaking. These gals are also a lot of fun! -- Charlotte Adelsperger

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Preparing talks and writing books are isolating disciplines. AWSA offers me mental and spiritual health perks in the form of a community and network of sisters who share the joys and challenges of this particular form of ministry. -- Mona Gansberg Hodgson

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Writing and prep for speaking is a solitary work. It is a good feeling to have a connection to others who share this special calling. AWSA provides that as well as an incentive to excellence. Marjorie Lee "ML" Chandler

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Kindred spirits who understand the spectacular ups and downs of writing and speaking like no one else can! Who better to encourage a writer/speaker on a down day than another writer/speaker? There's also the benefit of those who have gone before...Being fairly young in my ministry, I have been blessed with many mentors through AWSA - their friendship, wisdom, and expertise is invaluable to me! --
Laura Sabin Riley

*****

Greetings and Godspeed to all members of AWSA,

I am utterly blonde and completely new in this organization. Thanks to my utterly brunette, precious friend, Janice Chaffee, I am not dipping my toes into the waters here to learn more and more from each of you about your ministries and presentations.

My work with First Call was all about music. Presently, having two books with Harvest House and soon to be two solo Cds (new one slated for July release which will keep me running at CBA), I am able to go into all kinds of scenarios where I sing and speak.

Having a theatre background, I use interactive video pieces and other kinds of
video work that is highly effective. I have an evil twin (me) on the screen who
pops up and argues with me about grace, truth, fundamental issues of life. It's funny but also really powerful. Everyone relates to slapping around that voice in their heads that tries to work against God's sweet words.

On a grateful note, I am tremendously honored to be a part of this treasured group
and to read your notes, your words of encouragement to all the authors, your insights and how you are learning from your work. This feels like a church for writers. A place we can all come together through this wild internet and help each other when we are down, or need advice as well as celebrate with the achievements.

Thank you for welcoming me, I look forward to CBA where I can meet you rockin ladies face to face! --Blessings, Because of grace -- Bonnie Keen

*****

This is what being a part of AWSA has meant to me.
by Shirley Rose

The most important benefit has been meeting the incredible women who are a part of this organization. I have become close friends with women I would not have met otherwise. Because they are so talented and successful at what they do, they have inspired me to reach for higher goals and aspire to significant ministry I might never have imagined. The other benefit has been the support, prayer, and fellowship I have found at the AWSA meetings and online. Finally, the meetings have been a spiritual blessing. In particular, last July, I had a life-changing moment when we were asked to pray for our publishers. I realized I was harboring bitterness and unforgiveness in my heart. I later went to my publisher to apologize and make things right. I believe God was able to speak to me because of the intimate and spiritual environment of our meeting. -- Shirley Rose

*****

AWSA is a tremendous tool for professional networking. Advanced writers and speakers combine their varied experiences and extensive knowledge to support each woman called by God to communicate His message through the written and spoken word. Excellence is made possible through shared expertise while personal encouragement and prayer supply the support offered by Christ's Body as each woman seeks to fulfill His mission for this generation. --Linda McGinn

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Hi Linda,

I've been on the road almost constantly, so I'm just getting this reason I
belong to AWSA to you:

AWSA is better than the old sit com "Cheers" because not only is it a place
where everybody knows your name, it's also a place where everyone cares
about your name and the name of Christ, which we represent. Through my
connection with AWSA, I can literally travel from coast to coast and have a
"sister" in the city I'm visiting. It's a great comfort to have such a
family that is both personal and professional. I've learned how to do my
job as an author/speaker better through these ladies, I've made vital
contacts that have led to media opportunities and writing projects and I've
had a place to bring prayer requests that I know will be covered in
powerful prayer. My heart has been cheered through my association with
AWSA. -- Ellie Kay

*****

I've been on the road a bunch, so forgive my tardy reply. But the greatest blessing for me as part of AWSA is the awareness that I'm not alone. The connection with my speaking/writing sisters through prayer, understanding of intense schedules and concern for family provides strength and encouragement. Blessings, Sandra P. Aldrich

*****

Hi Linda,Wow, the days have been flying by. Per your request about value of AWSA:It’s a joy to learn of other women- their joys/concerns. Though I know few of these women personally, it’s a privilege to honor prayer requests and praises. Doing so makes me believe we’ll “know” each other when we meet in heaven even if we never meet here! J I have learned so much from others’ questions and the responses to those questions. I am so grateful for the education. It’s a joy to see the fruit of the Spirit at work through this loop and how women care for one another in specific and personal ways. It strengthens me, encourages me and challenges me to do more in the name of Jesus Christ. And of course I remember the privilege of meeting you at the first Amazing Grace conference. I’ll never forget your glow and your unabated graciousness to those with whom you spoke. Gosh, you are nice! J Blessings to you, Linda and to each precious member of your family (I love seeing the photos on your site). Thank you for all that you do to share and extend the love of God.Warmly, -- Susan B. Wilson

*****

I'm not alone! That's the wonderful reaction I have when I participate in AWSA. I feel comforted and affirmed that this is a big work of God and He's using us all in a mighty orchestrated dance, bringing glory to Himself. I love the connections and encouragement and I especially appreciate the vulnerability and honesty within the group. AWSA women are incredible and I'm proud to be one of them!
Kathy Collard Miller

*****

One of the many beautiful things about AWSA is the caring, community of
women that gather daily around their computers to support, encourage and
admonish one another. It is true that the writing life is a solitary
pursuit, but through our online "conversations," I rarely feel alone in my
work. At the click of my mouse a wonderful stream of professional counsel,
spiritual challenge, and author praise reports are there to lift my spirit
and prod me forward. I feel embraced by a dynamic, collection of sisters who
walk in my shoes and sing in my key. Rarely have I seen a group so nurturing
and eager to celebrate the successes of its members. I'm grateful for the
visionary leadership of Linda Shepherd and her team of talented
writer/speakers who are constantly scouting out new, untried landscapes for
AWSA women to explore and concur. Thanks to their faithful input and
tireless efforts I believe I'm a much better writer and speaker.
Caron Loveless
www.caronloveless.com

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