Hi Reader! My name is Tandi Joy Patton!
“The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.” –Psalm 28:7 NLT
I am 23 years old, from Texas, and completely honored to be a part of the World Race. I heard about this mission trip from an alumni while we were in Bulgaria on a bus traveling from one gypsy camp to the next. To say the least, I LOVE adventure! My first (key) adventure was when I was 12 years old. My mom signed us up to go on a Mexico Mission trip to some little villages up in the mountains help run a clinic. Ever since then I have been passionate about doing mission work, and so far have traveled to 20 countries.
“And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” -Mark 16:15 NLT
I was raised in a Christian home, and at 6 years old I made the decision to give my life to the Lord. Because I was so young, people sometimes showed concern and believed I didn’t know what I was doing. However, let me assure you that I remember that day and knew exactly what I what doing! My mom started a Christian Academy in our little town in Texas, so I wouldn’t have to be put in the public school system, and I graduated as Valedictorian. While in high school, I would pray and ask the Lord to give me a fun and adventurous life! I wanted to live for Him in a bold and fierce way!
In 2013, I was on a mission trip in the Philippines and had just spent the night in a host home, on the floor, with no air conditioning or any other “luxury”. The next morning I was given water in a bucket, which my host graciously pulled from her well, so that I could take a bucket bath. I went into the tiny, dim designated bathing area where there were no lights whatsoever. As I entered, I took notice of the spiders on the walls. It was in that moment I called out to the Lord and said, “God, this is what I want to do for the rest of my life! I want to live outside my comfort zone for YOU!” I’m sure now you may think I’m really crazy, but I know the Lord created me this way! He designed me to delight in doing crazy things for His glory because then I can share my exploits with people and encourage them with my stories. So when I found out about the World Race, I instantly wanted to go. However, the Lord instructed me to wait for the right timing. He encouraged me to focus on completing college (Elementary Education and English). And now, 2 years later, here I am finally about to embark on my journey! 
