Today marks two months since I rejoined the American population. It feels like a life-time ago. People constantly ask me how I’m adjusting to life back in the States. I suppose I’ve been adjusting well. Too well, in my opinion. Life feels mostly normal again. I no longer burst into tears at the realization of saying goodbye to the trip. The World Race so often seems like it was just a dream, and now I’ve woken up. Looking at pictures and videos from the year is surreal…was I really there? Did I really experience that? I know the answer is yes, even on the days that I don’t want to remember…after all, it makes me accountable to live life differently.
I’m still trying to figure out how to integrate everything I learned. The more time goes by, the most I’m seeing things emerge. I think of and see people differently. I feel more burdened for justice, for love.
So, the obvious question is, “What’s next?”
Okay, I guess I can finally make the official announcement. When I get back from Ireland, I’ll start my first full-time big girl job. I’ve been hired as the new/first Director of Missions at Camp Sumatanga. I couldn’t have dreamed of an opportunity like this. Camp and missions…could it get any better? I’ve been attending camp at Sumatanga since I was elementary school. I’ve worked there the past 5 years. I consider it my home, my favorite place in the world, Heaven on earth, etc. There are exciting things in store, such as starting a training program for people who plan to be long-term missionaries, facilitating short-term trips, disaster relief, mission retreats, local, national, and international opportunities, and more. Words can’t express how thankful I am. I still have to pinch myself everyday.
Well, I made it two months back in the country, it’s only appropriate that I leave again. Don’t worry, this time it’s only for about a week. Tomorrow I’ll be heading back to Ireland for the Awakening. Every World Racer on the field right now will come to Ireland- 5 whole squads. Joining them will be alumni, like me. Last year’s Awakening conference was monumental in my Race experience. It was in Romania, our second month of the Race. I’m excited to experience it with a different lens. I’m looking forward to seeing old friends, as well as making new ones. I’ll be joined by my great buds, Meagan and Evan Lanier. I’ll report back with important information, like the winning squad from the dance off!
