PORTLAND, OREGON - So there I was, getting ready to speak to the largest crowd I’ve ever addressed - more than 4,000 people (mostly Lutheran ladies) and I don’t think I could have been more nervous. I had asked for a podium because I am a big coward and need a security blanket when I talk. They set me up with some cool futuristic metal lectern that consisted of just a few skinny poles and a little platform. Had I known I would be that exposed, I would have worn a longer skirt:)
Anyway, the crowd was amazing. I didn’t get to see their faces – which is a tricky thing when you are trying to judge crowd reaction. I tried to limit the number of times on stage that I laughed to myself (I always think some things are really funny, but I end up laughing alone. Usually regarding historical references.) This great group of Lutherans met in beautiful Portland and took the time to listen to me and learn my story, but most importantly to share their stories with me. There were so many people who had been touched by cancer, and so many survivors in the crowd. My favorite part was the number of people who had cancer more than 35 years ago; those type of numbers are so hopeful, aren’t they?
So let’s hear it for the Lutheran Woman's Missionary League ladies and their favorite purple attire. Thanks, ladies, for including me in this amazing event!
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