I am sitting in the midst of greatness. Twenty-six female
authors came together in Destin, Florida this weekend to celebrate their love
of literature and their joy for writing. They came from all corners of the
country, at varying levels in their writing careers. There are the seasoned
professionals, the mid-list authors, and the newbies. They are all spirited,
driven, and determined to transcend the perception of who they are as black women
and as black women who write.
They have gathered to share information and perfect their
craft. What they each do is an art and not one takes the responsibility of
being better at it lightly. The abundance of support and encouragement is
monumental, each wanting the others to do their very best in an industry that
often takes them and their talents for granted.
Laughter has been abundant, resonating through every room of
their rented beach house. There have even been a few tears of frustration as they
shared the trials and tribulations that make what they do a challenge. But
there is an understanding that they do not walk this path alone.
They’ve shared the best of themselves. There have been new
bonds of friendship and alliances formed. It’s a sisterhood of magnanimous
proportions and as I sit, watching, listening, and learning, I can sense a
revolution of sorts in the making.
I am in the midst of greatness and I can’t wait for others to
see what comes from the excellence that sits together in this room.
Comments
Vanessa Riley
Sheryl Lister