Not one single person could have prepared me for this season – the season of preparing to leave for 11 months. I’ve gone back and forth about writing a blog for this because I’m not even sure I can describe it very well. I’ll give it my best shot.
At training camp they will tell you how important it is to be “engaged” when being around family and friends, to soak up these moments with people close to you before leaving for a year. I thought this would be no problem at all. That was a lie. And, it wasn’t because I didn’t want to be around my family and friends, because I did. And I still do these last days here in the States.
I have had to work extra hard for my mind to be present when around family and friends because I am sad about leaving, which was unexpected. I am dreading both of the going away parties, because I’m an introvert and parties that are centered around me are a nightmare. It has truly hit me that something I’ve been praying/thinking about for years, is happening in 11 days. I keep thinking maybe if I read enough blogs I will feel more prepared to leave for 11 months. Maybe if I stalk enough Instagram accounts of current racers, I will get a better idea of what my year will look like. Yeah, Facebook and Instagram will have the answers I’m looking for. (Insert eyes rolling here)
Last week, I was eating sushi at my favorite sushi restaurant (Niko Niko) with my mom. I received a message from my team leader telling us what our ministry will be for month one in El Salvador. Our ministry will be: Pairing with a non-profit Christian organization that seeks to improve the life of residents of the beach communities in El Salvador. We will be eating, sleeping, and living in an orphanage, helping with a church every Saturday morning, and teaching a special program designed for teen girls at the orphanage.
After reading the message, I didn’t even have words. Excitement began to take over and I could not stop smiling. To think this is what I get to do for a month is amazing! I am already dreading saying goodbye to them and I haven’t even met them! Guess I’m not very good with goodbyes, huh? 🙂
So to future racers, from training camp to launch is a difficult season. I had no idea how difficult it would be. But knowing the blessings and adventures ahead makes it all worth the while. And it won’t be much longer until the adventure begins. 11 days to be exact.
To all of my dear family, friends, supporters, prayer warriors,
Thank you. Thank you so so much.
