I know you are not suppose to ask “Why” questions as it is really a low level accusing question, but this is one I have never understood.
You sign up for a conference or convention, pay your fee, make travel plans, and anticipate how you will gain knowledge, peace, growth, and direction, whether it is if for a business, ministry, or any other things that you want as part of your life.
The leaders plan a full day, two, or even three day event that is designed to meet the needs of the attendees. So my question is “Why do people not stay for the WHOLE conference?” Any conference planners always save the very best for last. Yet I was at a conference yesterday and was once again disappointed that in the last session, there were about 30% empty seats that weren’t there before the last session.
Not knowing the reason for their early departure, things run through my mind. Did they have a plane to catch? Did they set an appointment too close to the end of the conference? Did they need to get a good spot at a restaurant? Were they mad? Were they bored? So many scenarios run through my mind.
I feel for the last speaker, as he walked out on the stage to see those empty seats. But the best part was that his thoughts, message, and direction were dynamic for each person that did stay.
So here I am this morning wondering “why”. No answers, but feel like those who left missed the thoughts that tied the whole day together and gave great direction for the next steps were the really big losers. Someday the WILL encounter what was presented and could help them in their journey. Sad but they will not have answers, just more questions, frustrations, and sadness.
If you go to a conference, plan on being there until the end. Your biggest take away will be because you stayed. Conferences are just planned that way. For your growth!
