I often quote Kelly Roach to my clients and followers: "Human connection is your superpower."
I've been thinking a lot about my own marketing--visibility, consistency, etc.--for my writing and music, for my business, Siretona Creative.
I've also been thinking a lot about prayer. Kelly Roach's Kairos mentoring program has been challenging me on my prayerlessness in business and in all of life. So my new habit in 2024 is "divine hours" guided by an Anglican prayer app. Often it has an accompanying podcast to guide me through and give me a stronger sense of connecting to all the believers also praying around the world-- the saints. The practice is grounding me in a whole new way, anchoring my attention and filling my heart and soul.
Today, into this context, Marcia Laycock shared a post for authors about the importance of PRESENCE more than platform, presence rooted in discernment and prayer.
"Ask God to show you the avenues of PRESENCE that will best help others in your audience. Let go of anything that is no longer serving you, or is bringing you harm. Work hard, yes, but work hard at things that actually bring YOU a return on your time investment. Think about your audience as your congregation and seek ways to serve them simply and powerfully. Ask yourself, 'What would help my friend today?' And then, do it." (https://marydemuthliterary.com/brokenplatform/)
It all fits: the grounding, the praying, the serving. Yes, it's important to get competent with specific tools and techniques, but the connection is primary-- with God and with people. Everything else fades.
My father's side of the family has a tradition whenever we gather for a meal: we sing "The Blessing" to the tune of "The Doxology."
Be present at our table, Lord.
Be here and everywhere adored.
These mercies bless, and grant that we
May feast in Paradise with Thee.
Amen
Our ability to be present is rooted in God's Presence.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
Praise Him all creatures here below.
Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts.
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost
Amen.