Today was a total high, and likely tomorrow will be another, and then on Sunday, another. I used to go out-of-body when I had to perform — to do anything in public — including speaking up.
The legacy of an abusive childhood.
But tonight was delightful! I spoke to the Willamette Writers meeting in the Old Church in downtown Portland – “The Gentle Art of Interviewing” – and it was me, just me up there. Not the performer me, or the frightened me. Not the me that would show up, a Doppelganger who could do the act I’d scripted out. Previous to this year, all manner of fears would bind me. That I stayed in body tonight, and was even entertaining when my sweet little pink nano shuffled some of the audio clips – was an outrageous achievement for me. And I am so grateful for the people in my life who have helped me to heal — from when I was that raped little girl who grew up in a household of violence and mental illness, who stayed silent, lest the secret get out.
I use my Voice now.
Tomorrow night I share inspirational ways to grow from wherever you are in life — to a place grander, more fun, exciting, maybe even beyond your wildest dreams! I would love for you to come, because after tonight, I know what I have to share — real and magical — works! It’s called Rev Up Your Life. There are still a few spaces left — here’s the link:
http://upcoming.yahoo.com/event/4428639/
And Sunday, I’ll be at Wordstock moderating a panel on Spiritual Writing. That will be fun! Come to Wordstock!
Tonight, I played about forty audio clips to Willamette Writers, illustrating what I believe makes a great interview. How to? Like most appreciated acts in our world — simple, and yet complex. The answer is to BE REAL.
Ted Magnuson said,
October 7, 2009 @ 4:17 pm
Thank you for compiling and presenting the ‘snippets’ you’ve collected from countless author interviews and interviewees. It is a pleasure to become acquainted with your work. You are bold to encourage people to envision true hope.
Diana Page Jordan said,
October 8, 2009 @ 7:13 am
Wow, Ted, thank you. It is my pleasure!
TheFirstCarol said,
October 11, 2009 @ 8:13 pm
You were wonderful and entertaining. You were unruffled at the shuffling, a great example of how to take what life sends you in stride. Looking forward to reading your book…best of luck on the search for a publisher
Diana Page Jordan said,
October 12, 2009 @ 1:08 am
Thank you! The things we don’t plan are sometimes the best teachers! I appreciate your kind words!