We are in Brasov Romania, which is a quaint 15th century (give or take a hundred years) city that is perfect to spend a few days eating, shopping, and relaxing in if you are ever in the neighborhood. Our whole squad of 50 people are here for our final days of the World Race. I can’t believe it’s almost over.
Last night was a night to remember and reminisce the past 11 months. There were a lot of laughs and some touching moments. We remembered the faces of kids who should have a better life than what is ahead of them. We thanked the 13 men on our squad who have led and served us girls all year by loading and unloading our bags onto countless buses and showed us what a real man of God looks like. I teared up a few times today as we had our final de-brief meeting with my team and as we worshipped together tonight. I’m not sure how I feel about this whole thing ending. I know that it’s time and frankly I’m ready to move on, but I have a suspicion that I’m going to miss the community more than I can imagine right now.
What am I going to do when I don’t have 6 roommates anymore who go everywhere with me and see my various moods throughout the day? Who is going to make me exercise when I get home? I wonder if I will still sleep with earplugs in at home even though no one is talking while I try to fall asleep. Will I still wear the same 5 shirts all the time once I have my whole closet of clothes?
This afternoon the squad girls went up a mountain and hung out. We prayed together and shared words of truth and encouragement with each other. One girl spoke the word “Beloved” as a word of identity in the Lord for me. I love it because I’ve been reading Song of Songs and reading the Lover part as God and the Beloved part as me. It’s a beautiful love story. So, after we got our words, we all sharpie tattooed them on ourselves so that our identity stays with us for a few days back home. Check out my new Sharpie tat.
Tonight was a night to celebrate and laugh hard at ourselves and at the funny things we’ve learned about each other. I had a guy spit his drink on me he was laughing so hard. It was the most therapeutic night of the race for me I think. I hope to be a lot more light hearted when I get home. I want to love and laugh freely. I have been completely blessed this year. The people I’m around are quality. They love the Lord more than anything and they are ready to do something more than talk about it. I got to see 4 continents and so many new cultures. I was able to glimpse new aspects of worship and faith. There are many stories for me to tell. I’m excited to get home and tell them.
See you very soon!
