StepUP

Welcome the New Year, Welcome Changes

What is harder to believe: the fact that we just had to break out new calendars or that there is actually a new post up here at StepUP? Actually, I think both events are monumental and exciting.

Sho and Sho had crazy busy things going on the last few months of 2011 and have used our break from our regular posting schedule to plan for 2012. Things are still somewhat in the air, but I did want to share some of what I know I am tweaking for the coming year.

First of all, I am way too busy -- sort of like like the saying that goes something like this "jack-of-all-trades-masters of none." Have you ever felt that way? Well, the good thing for me is that over the two years (or is it three?) that StepUP has been in existance, it has helped me identify what I really enjoy and what God has given me a natural ability to accomplish. That is what I want to share in my upcoming posts.

Mountaintop Experiences: Love 'Em, Hate 'Em

Most of us have had a mountaintop experience at one time. I love having my world rocked in a good way and when it is because of God that is even better. But, there is something I wish was not part of such a spiritual high: returning to the valley. I don't like that part so much.

All mountaintop encounters are different. Some come in the form of an experience while others may be revelation. It doesn't matter what gondola we ride to the top or what path we hike into the clouds, we can't pitch our tents permanently on the top.

Last weekend I attended a conference that allowed me to, once again, enjoy the view from the top of the world. But as always happens after such a glorious event, I returned to the valley. Up high, that is where we meet God and our hearts breathe in crisp, clean air. The valley is where we live our experiences.

The Business Side of Writing and Speaking

As with so many ventures, there is a business side to being a Christian communicator. In addition to writing articles or a manuscript, preparing a presentation, and building a platform, there is marketing yourself, necessary licenses, and paying taxes.

Marketing

Without an audience, we have no reason to write or speak. When I started my quest, I did not like to promote myself. It was suppose to be about God . . . or so I thought. It IS about God, but unless people know ME and want to hear my message or read my articles, my message about God has no way to get out.

We need to be ready to promote ourselve no matter how hard it is. It is amazing how involved marketing is for those further along in the business, but for those just starting the journey, it can be quite simple.

Just a Season

When called by God to write or speak, we travel through different seasons of our lives, especially as we grow and mature spiritually in our walk with the Lord.

God gave us seasons in nature and there is a season for everything under the sun.

I've had seasons where trials came one after another, then I would have a reprieve and experience relief. What can we do when we are bombarded with something that feels like we've been hit by a freight train?

Here's a small portion of what I feel the Lord has led me to do during tough times. I hope it encourages you if you face difficult situations.

Don't Blow Smoke, Get the Facts

Last week my life came to a screeching halt: a wildfire exploded near my quiet community. Thankfully, my tiny town never came under a mandatory evacuation order, but we packed and were ready to leave at a moment's notice.

While we sat waiting, television coverage of the blazing menace dominated our lives. I was appalled at the misinformation the national media was disseminating and was reminded how important facts are. As Christian communicators, we need be credible.

Names and Titles

Anytime you write or speak about someone or something, make sure names and titles are correct. The Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) was threatened when the Las Conchas fire ignited. It did not take long before the media mistakenly referred to the research facility as the Los Alamos Nuclear Laboratory.

Support Group for July Cancelled

Unfortunately, Life Happens! Both Sho & Sho (Shona Neff and Shonda Savage Whitworth) have experienced chaotic lives this past week that prevent us from being there for you tonight for our monthly online Support Group meeting.

We all need support and hope you will join us next time. Until then, we are here for you through the blog, Twitter, and Facebook. Feel free to contact us.

We Get By with a Little Help from Our Friends

At the prompting of a friend, I recently joined a women’s golf league despite not being much of a golfer. Over the last 10 years I’ve taken a couple of group lessons, but never pursued club swinging beyond instruction or the driving range . . . until now.

First time on the Golf Course

My friend, Yolanda, and I headed to our first evening with the ladies not knowing what to expect. If someone would have told me I would get to the point of tears, I would not have believed them. Let me clarify: I laughed so hard at myself the other ladies must have thought I was crazy. What was so funny you ask? It was my obvious status as a newbie!

Who goes to the golf course without balls? Oh yeah, and no tees or markers, and with a putter so old it belongs in a museum? That would be me! Then there was my golf bag. Upon arrival Yolanda and I noticed that all the golf ladies had wheels . . . golf bag wheels. The only thing I had was a saggy bag that, whenever I propped it against something, fell down like a pair of pants needing a belt.

June Support Group Meeting Cancelled

Yes, we all need support. However, the June 7 online support group meeting is cancelled. Sho and Sho (Shona and Shonda) each have other scheduling conflicts for the first Tuesday of the month for June. We both plan to be back on July 5. So be sure to mark your calendars.

We're here for you through the blog, Facebook and Twitter. Throughout June, please leave a comment on this blog, on our Facebook page, or Twitter about how the StepUP Support Group has encouraged you and perhaps that will encourage others.

American Idol's Top Three: A Lesson in Branding

As the current season of American Idol moves closer to crowning its next winner, opinions are as plentiful as hymns in a church service. Last night’s episode showcased the three remaining contestant’s vocal talents, and perhaps more subtly, their individual styles . . . better known in the world of writing and speaking as branding.

No doubt each member the remaining trio can sing, but who has done the better overall job of defining themselves as performers? Let’s take a look at each of these gifted young adults and see who has the strongest branding.

Scotty McCreery

Whether you are a fan of country music or not, Scotty McCreey's vocal prowess is undeniable. His rich voice and dancing eyebrows are easy to love. However, moving beyond his amazing voice we see a genuine country boy reflected in his attitude, his faith, and his appearance. When Scotty steps out onto the stage, fans know what to expect even though he has proven he is comfortable sitting quietly behind the microphone strumming his guitar or trotting across the stage engaging the audience with a toe-tapping tune.

When the spotlight shines on Scotty he always looks like Scotty whether he’s topped off in a leather jacket, a comfortable tee, or a plaid button-down shirt. He has effectively branded himself as a country crooner.

So, what is the bottom line? Scotty has defined himself. He is versatile in his performances, but has shown America who Scotty McCreery is . . . a country gentleman, through and through.

For Real

Over the past several years I've noticed more reality television programming during the prime time line-up. Initially a few of these programs caught my attention, and I wanted to see who won at the end. But as life bombarded me with busyness, my interest waned. Frankly I thought the reality TV fad would wane along with mine.

Some shows crashed, like Nanny 911 and Fear Factor. However, more shows have lasted, such as Survivor and American Idol, than those that have crashed.

Why is reality TV so popular? I do not have a scientific answer, but based on my personal observations I think people want to see real people (not actors) succeed, overcome obstacles, and learn lessons from those who do not win.

I admit, this year I turned back into a reality TV junkie. Well, not really a junkie, but a fan of two popular shows running at this time. Why do I watch them?