I remember the day I received the email from the Redbud Writers Guild telling me my application for membership had been approved. That was exactly 6 years ago. I had been encouraged to apply by my friend Judy, who believed in me more than I believed in me.
Judy is still a Redbud and still encourages me. I’m thankful for her.
In the 6 years that I have been a Redbud, I have not been able to attend a retreat. This year, Hurricane Nicole decided to blow through Orlando right before the retreat. I just couldn’t find it in me to rearrange flights and car rental and all that, so I canceled.
But after reading the articles included in this special January edition of The Redbud Post, I sincerely wish that I had powered through and gotten it done–even if the temps in the Chicago area were going to be in the 30s and my Florida blood would have frozen.
Being a writer, as nearly every author will tell you, is a lonely business. It’s just you and your computer. Unless you’re lucky enough to be in a writing community like the Redbud Writers Guild.
In the old days, guilds used to be a big deal when you were in any kind of trade. According to socialstudies.org, “guilds are defined as associations of craftsmen and merchants formed to promote the economic interests of their members as well as to provide protection and mutual aid.”
Here at Redbuds, we like to say we “create in community and foster a safe sisterhood of creatives.” There’s not a spirit of competition, but only one of building each other up and encouraging one another. By all accounts, it appears the guild is definitely being successful in that endeavor. What an amazing group of women God has brought together to encourage each other.
So this month we are featuring 7 stories from women who attended the 2022 retreat in November in Darien, Ill. What they learned about synergy and fellowship and community is applicable for anyone who craves encouragement in their craft.
We love to hear from our readers! Please leave a comment for the writers, and please tell your friends about The Redbud Post. It’s easy to subscribe!
Many blessings as you read and receive encouragement yourself from their words.
Stephanie Reeves
Editor in Chief
Photo of gazebo at Carmelite Spiritual Center by Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young
I love that you took time to look up the definition of guild. These words speak volumes: “guilds are defined as associations of craftsmen and merchants formed to promote the economic interests of their members as well as to provide protection and mutual aid.” I pray that we can open up that kind of sisterhood and protection and care for each other at Redbud!
Thank you, Dorina! You’re a great example of all that.