Susan LaffertyIt’s no secret. There’s strategy in advertising. A bid for my buy-in.
“If you conform, you’ll truly be successful.” In your field. Home. Community. Life.
“Purchase that to make your life complete.” “Wear this particular clothing line to fit in and stand out.”
“You’ll never move ahead if you don’t hold to this worldview.”
So they say. Or insinuate. Messaging at every turn.
Last year, I saw a random ad for a writers conference called HopeWords. In Bluefield, West Virginia.
Glancing at familiar and not-so-familiar names of presenters, I somehow knew—I’d be there in April 2024.
I recruited my friend and fellow writer to sign up. It’s not like other writers conferences, we were told. But then, having never been to one before—what did I know?
This past week, I’ve been reflecting on those 24 hours of HopeWords Writers Conference 2024. Remembering Bluefield’s generosity: homemade desserts, excellent musicians, rides on the trolley. Considering the words of Travis Lowe, Daniel Nayeri, Mitali Perkins, Jackie Hill Perry, Hannah Anderson, and more.
And feeling thankful for that not-so-random ad.
“The way of the cross leads home….”
In worship settings of my childhood, the hymn marched. Triumphant. Its lyrics sung with gusto.
In later years, the words hit differently. Move me into quiet consideration. Thoughtful meditation.
On how this is lived out. Day by day.
