Returning home from the World Race and seeing my family again for the first time in 11 months was something I thought about even before I left. From the moment I applied, I imagined what it would be like when that time finally arrived. I never allowed the thoughts of my homecoming to keep my emotions from the ministry at hand, but I must admit, while overseas not a day went by that I didn’t think about seeing my family at the airport. I understand that I was only away for technically 10 1/2 months, and this isn’t worth comparing to military families who say goodbye for years at a time, but this was emotionally tough for my family, and the reunion was everything I’d thought it would be.
I graduated from college in December 2009, just a few weeks before Christmas. Graduating was nice and Christmas was even better, however, it seemed like there was a gray cloud hovering over my family. We all enjoyed the Christmas season, but we knew that we would soon say some pretty tough goodbyes.
Trevor and I flew from Florida to California together on December 31st. I’m glad he was there. I didn’t want to cry in front of him. But I did. The picture of us together at the airport was taken as we went through security. I said my last goodbyes to my mom and dad, shared my last hugs, told them I loved them, gave the thumbs up, and then boarded the plane. My parents stayed to watch our plane take off.
Throughout the year, when times were tough, I would think about the walks I would have if I were with my dad at home. I went for walks often on the race. Almost everyday. While walking, I would think about how Thanksgiving would be when I returned home in November. And how much more exciting the upcoming Christmas season would be than the year before. I allowed myself to visit these thoughts constantly.
Before our final flight of the race, while we were at the airport waiting for our layover to end, a large number of racers found a store selling colognes and perfumes. We quickly went inside and began spraying ourselves with whatever fragrance pleased us most. We wanted to smell nice for our friends and families, for we would surely be hugging them all soon.
As the plane bound for New York City cleared the runway, sounds of cheering and clapping erupted from the racers. The cheers were followed by our National Anthem. After that, it was time to try and get some sleep. We knew it would be hours before we landed on U.S. soil.
For most of the flight, the passengers were still and quiet. The majority were asleep. I didn’t sleep at all. Instead I watched a movie. I was extremely anxious. I had the jitters. My stomach was in knots. And I had no appetite.
Finally, after the hours had passed… lights! I could see the lights of New York City! The dreamers woke up and began to straighten their seats. The racers began their cheers and applauses again as I started to put my ipod and headphones in my backpack. This was it!
I remember feeling numerous emotions all at once. The race was over. We’re back. I couldn’t wait to see my parents, my brother, and sister-in-law. I was also dreading saying goodbye to the racers who had walked alongside of me all year. Part of me hurt. Part of me rejoiced.
We went through baggage claim, and then showed our passport to the person behind the desk at the window one last time. And now, on the other side of the wall stood my family. As I approached the Welcome Center, I could hear families and friends cheering for the racers who had come out before me.
I thought about this moment for a year and a half. Now, it was here. There they were. My family. Welcoming me back home. My mom was the first to get to me. We embraced one another and cried together. Next was my dad. He cried over me and ran his hand down the back of my head saying “You look so good son. You look so good.”
Even as I write this, I tear up. As long as I live, I’ll never forget that moment. There is so much more I’d like to share but I find some things are better to say in person. So I preach on it. Thank you all for following this journey. Thanks for the encouragement and the support. I will continue to blog as God continues to bless me with stories to share.
Leaving for the World Race.
Waiting for our arrival.
My first walk with my dad in 11 months. Times Square.
Breakfast at Carnegie Deli.
