Somehow, I’ve found myself in the middle of December in Thailand with very little memory of how I got here. No, really.
Finishing up the month in Costa Rica and Panama came like a flood. You know it’s coming, but you still get swept up into the rush all the same. Sorry, Colorado. Too soon?
And yet here I am, just now beginning to reflect on what Month Three on the field with W Squad really looked like. From my nearsighted view, it looked like traveling into the tribal lands of the Ngobe tribe in Panama, border crossings, time at the beach, serving at a benefit luncheon, discipling and mentoring the 44 racers on the squad, and did I mention traveling, traveling, and more traveling?
The last month in Central America is when Squad Leading became real for me. It was when I had to speak difficult words of constructive feedback, call out sins and behaviors that were detrimental to teams and individuals alike, be a prayer warrior, worship in Spirit and in Truth, and pour out even when I was tired, worn down, and desperately wanted my introvert time.
In Squad Leading, you’re never “off.” If you’re with a team or a racer, you’re observing, thinking, serving, and loving (most of the time). You’re juggling the things you see clearly right in front of you with the behind the scenes happenings that constantly need your attention. You are a parent, a mentor, a shepherd, a servant, and a friend. You are always needed.
Pretty sure I’m going to be an awesome mom after all this.
Amanda and I wrapped up the month by celebrating Thanksgiving at a swanky Marriott resort on the beach with over a hundred North American expats and missionaries. It was the nicest Thanksgiving I’ve ever had and I was on the World Race. My head (and my stomach) exploded a little bit at the vast array of turkey, stuffing, mashed and sweet potatoes, gravy, salads, bread, and dessert upon dessert upon dessert.
And then it was time to meet in San Jose with the Squad and fly to Atlanta to Los Angeles to Hong Kong to Bangkok where we met up with our lovely coaches and began a five day debrief in Thailand.
As we're entering Month 4, I'm reminded how little time remains for me here with W Squad. It's already the middle of December, and I'm determined to finish this journey strong and with the heart of a champion. After all, my name doesn't mean "Lady of Victory" for nothing!
Stay tuned for an update from Thailand coming soon!
