I’m celebrating Thanksgiving this week in Nepal with about 20 World Race friends and one of their mothers who just happens to be volunteering at an orphanage here in Pokhara, Nepal and has graciously offered to cook us all Thanksgiving dinner.
In celebration of Thanksgiving, I have decided to share in this blog just a few of the many things that I am thankful for on the World Race:
My Team– I live, work, and do everything in between with 5 women on team WILDroots here on the World Race. My teammates take care of me when I’m sick, cook meals with me, laugh with me, and encourage me to grow. All 6 of us have different talents and come from completely different backgrounds, which means that we perfectly illustrate the body of Christ coming together. Community living is full of both joy and the occasional minor annoyance. It’s an incredible lesson in love and humility.
Creation– Wow, the Lord is an amazingly creative artist. This month my backyard is a stunning lake that is surrounded by mountains, and with only a short hike, I can glimpse the full Annapurna Range of the Himalayas in all of its glory. I am thankful to get a bigger glimpse of all that the Lord has created for us on the World Race this year. It is such a blessing to constantly be reminded of His vastness and love for us through nature.
The Church– Sunday on the World Race means church in a different language. Even though I cannot understand a single word of the message or the worship, I find so much joy through visiting different churches. I am thankful to literally experience the nations declaring the glory of God. There is nothing like seeing the joy on a Nepali woman’s face during worship and knowing that God fully knows, loves, and understands her just as He does me.
Children– The laughter of children is the same in every language. I feel like I see cuter and cuter children everyday on the World Race. I love making silly faces at random infants on the street and tickling and cuddling babies whose mothers I meet at ministry. I am thankful to continue to learn from the faith of children as I travel this year.
Internet– 11 months, though short in the long run, sometimes feels like a long time. I am thankful for Internet because it allows me to be in fairly steady communication with all of you at home and (let’s be honest) to keep up with the Vols during football season. Thank you all for checking in and encouraging me as the weeks go by.
Fundraising– I never thought I would be thankful for this one, BUT the Lord has taught me so much about His provision as I have fundraised for the World Race. I have been completely overwhelmed with the support of my church and my friends and family during this journey. I am thankful to have learned that what the Lord desires, He provides for, and He has certainly provided for me through your generosity. Thank you!
Speaking of fundraising, to be fully funded and complete the entire 11 months of my race I need to raise about $3,400 more by the end of January. If you feel led to further support me, simply click the Donate! button on this blog to give. Even the smallest donation means so much to me.
Dhanyabad (thank you in Nepali) and Happy early Thanksgiving!
Brooke
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