Before applying for the Race I was filled with curiosity and hesitation of how this type of news would be received. I was worried about what people might think or how things could come together for such a change in circumstances. However, before I knew it, I was being encouraged and supported in every way possible. As this journey continues, I want to share the ways I’ve been encouraged, to share thankfulness of support and to remind myself that this journey is not my own journey as the affirmations from others have brought great peace and assurance.
In the coming months I will miss countless family: birthdays, holidays, spontaneous phone calls, Facetimes as an aunt and the close sports games that we “watch” together as a family by a rapid flurry of texts back and forth. However, ever since the beginning of the application process my family has been supportive and excited for the coming months. Their continual phone conversations of interest and reminders of pursuing God’s heart, despite discomfort, have been reminders of this once in a lifetime opportunity. They’ve even gone to the great length of organizing ‘Christmas’ in June so we can have a week of family time before I head off. I’m grateful for my family who sends an ongoing ‘attack’ of love.
I have been surrounded by friends checking-in throughout this process. Stretching from Portland, down to L.A and across to the East Coast, friends have met my news with excitement and positive affirmation. I’m incredibly grateful for how their prayers and interest have been with me on the journey up until now. Even to have a friend in Japan to help me with graphic design help, has been a great testimony to how vast the support comes. Constant texts throughout the application process and talking about the possibilities of what the 11 months might look like have been a true blessing.
A few weeks ago I woke up knowing that the day had come to tell my co-workers that I’d be leaving JCHS for the Race in the fall. I had been weary of how I might leave Jefferson well. Praying earnestly for words, discernment and wisdom. God prepared this better than I could have imagined. As I walked into offices of those who have welcomed me into the JCHS family I was extremely nervous. Through every office and conversation I’ve been given immense encouragement. My nerves have been met with support and understanding. Over this school year we have gone through many events, meetings, countless ‘water-cooler’ conversations and everything in between. I can’t thank the JCHS community enough for how they’ve joined me on this journey. I’m grateful for the constant excitement… including the help of a spontaneous photo shoot to get my picture for my magnet!
Knowledge about the WorldRace has been found in many places and conversations. From the Sunday morning greeting conversations to my mom’s friend in Memphis who’s been part of the WorldRace for years, from my friend’s-friend’s friend having gone on the Race; the Race continually make connections through various circles of people. BSF women, whom I’ve come to know through our Monday nights, check in with me weekly and give suggestions of packing gear. The Race has also brought confidence and opportunity to talk about what God is doing in the world. It’s been neat to have conversations open up about His Word and His stirrings in others’ hearts. With smiles beaming and a heart blessed to see His fingerprints, I’m anxious to continually see how He has uniquely prepared blessings for the Race. I’ve been incredibly encouraged from the random conversations, the constant check-ins and extensive support. I laugh when thinking about the nights I worried and was anxious about how the news might be perceived in my various circles.
God prepares each road ahead. He goes before us through everything. I’m grateful for the encouragement I have received up to this point. I pray my eyes would continually seeing His blessings and affirmations in the days ahead,… even when it might not necessarily as clear as a friend saying “I’m so excited for you!” But might my eyes be opened to the ways He has prepared this journey of making connections and shinning light onto the ways He makes things come about.
