Ignite has a fantastical quality to it. Not the type in the movie Legend, where you ignore Tom Cruise’s acting to hope against hope for an endangered unicorn. Instead, it’s more like the fantasy that is the Princess Bride. It’s silly, self-aware, and self-creating.

My first exposure to Ignite was through my friend Stace, who spoke at number 3. After seeing her posts on Facebook, I was surprised at both the zany subject matter of her speech, and the popularity of speaking at the event. The most vivid memory I had of public speaking was in the fifth grade, speaking on Tuberculosis.

Months later, through sheer serendipity, I nabbed tickets just in time for Ignite 7. An expectant joy filled the air as patrons waited on the open patio just to listen. The experience was electrifying! I’d always wondered if the people of Phoenix had any passion, and this was proof. Each speaker took the stage, blew past their fears, and let loose whatever heartfelt desire had brought them into the spotlight. By intermission, I was hooked. Hell, I was ignited. I was determined to join the ranks.

A few months later, I submitted and was denied. The next round, I was luckier. Experienced presenters understood my desire and offered constructive criticism. I sat down, burned my old ideas, and started anew. “What do I love?” I asked myself. Nothing much jumped out, save chocolate, my dog, writing, and the faces of loved ones. Ignite’s penchant for the fiercely unusual meant that anything worth submitting would have to leap out of me.

Then, I asked myself, “What would other people say I love?”

Zombie movies. Dating. Boom.

Nervousness did not set in until prep sessions with the crew. Things were cooking in my mind and I trusted they would not disappoint. Jeff Moriarty pulled me aside and immediately asked me a question that rattled me. The exact words are now forgotten as my mind went blank, but it caused me to sit down, panic appropriately, and put together a much better presentation than originally planned. The whole crew was like that: supportive, challenging, and feisty as hell.

The event itself was a whirlwind. Speakers are coached, led, supported, and the entire process happens so quickly you barely know the presentation is happening until it’s already over. The audience is the best part. Even if you mess up, which I did multiple times, they’re in it with you: heart for heart.

It turns out the trick to a memorable presentation is not to be perfect, but to relax into your own passion. You might forget a sentence, but you won’t forget the purpose. Not even for a moment.

My speech was about love and, more specifically, sharing your love with the people who deserve it. This group of dedicated people – staff and presenters alike – feels like a family because they’ve chosen to share their hearts fearlessly, both on stage and off.

Like Westley and Princess Buttercup, Ignite Phoenix is true love.

Or should I say twoo wuv.