“Do you Suppose She’s a Wildflower?” -Alice in Wonderland
It is now less than two weeks until I meet the rest of my squad at training camp, and sixty-nine days until we all begin our journey to Africa! Whaaat?! I am so excited!
Over the past several months, since I began this journey, I have experienced so many emotions ranging from fear and doubt, to joy and total excitement. Each day brings on new challenges and blessings. When life gets overwhelming, I tend to find myself in nature, where I feel most at peace and connected spiritually.
This past week I went on a hike and while I was hiking through breath taking mountains and colorful plants, I thought a lot about my worries and concerns about leaving home. Will I make friends? Am I qualified enough to do this? Will I make a difference? How do you pack twenty-four years into one backpack?
Through the beautiful scenery, He showed me this…
“And why do you worry about clothes? Look at how the flowers in the field grow. They don’t work or make clothes for themselves. Seek first God’s Kingdom and what God wants. Then all your needs will be met as well.”
-Matthew 6:28,33
God wants us to be like wildflowers. Wildflowers grow in unexpected places, not worrying about the elements in this world that could harm them, but just being, and growing faithfully, accepting whatever comes to them: rain or shine.
There is much to learn from wildflowers.
Be Confident in Your Individuality
“Do not conform to the ways of this world.” -Romans 12:2
Like wildflowers, God created us individually and allows us to bloom in our own time. Don’t let fear hold you back from becoming your true self.
Seek Simplicity
Wildflowers require no maintenance. They just are. Beautiful without any work. They don’t have an overflowing walk-in closet (my current situation) they just have the few petals and leaves they carry with them.
Embrace Those Around You
Wildflowers grow freely where they want, but they look the most beautiful in abundance, and among variety. Each kind of unique flower has greatness to contribute to the overall picture. So love and accept those around you despite our differences.
Be Wild
“Shine like stars in a dark world.” Philippians 2:15
God did not intend for us to simply “fit in”. He created us to stand out and in faith. Grow in unexpected places and bring love and joy to everyone you cross paths with.
I am grateful for moments such as these during my preparation for The World Race, and the overwhelming support and prayers from you all! This wouldn’t be possible without you. THANK YOU! 🙂
