It’s been six years since my adventures in Cross Culture studies and Ministry began. Each trip that goes by I am broken, remolded and filled with passion to pursue the next adventure. There is something so powerful in letting go of the doubts, questions and fears, and jumping full force into the unknown, knowing that I will either fly, or fall (where God will eventually catch me). So far, I have been fortunate to say, that jumping has only led me to incredible adventures, growth, experience and has ultimately opened new doors. Thus, leading me to The World Race. This was not a decision made overnight, I first heard about the race in 2011, while serving in Mozambique, Africa under Iris Ministries. At the time I was twenty one, and a beginner to the idea of cross – culture missions. My longest trip was three months, and costing no more than $5000.00 (which at that time, I believed was a big goal). So the idea of 11 months, and raising close to $20,000 was far to intimidating to take on. I believe it all came down to timing. I am now twenty five, I have worked overseas for longer periods of time, and have had the opportunity to study theology and receive the education I felt I needed, to be better equipped to take on such an inspiring and exciting adventure.
Saying this, there is defiantly still worry, fear, and discomfort when facing the reality that this trip is only possible through the support of family, friends, and ultimately God. $16,600 is a lot of money to raise, and there is a pressure in meeting deadlines, especially after just returning home from five months in Cambodia. Before I feel like I can really settle back into Toronto, my mind is racing on ways to ask people to pray, fund and support me. Vaccinations, Medical Insurance, Fundraising letters, Supplies and the knowing that in just 6 months I will be packing my life back up, and setting out for another adventure into the unknown is CRAZY. But, this is the life I feel most drawn too, and through all the risks, and craziness, God has shown me that if He opens a door and says Go! All else will fall into place, according to His will. Plus, through the fear and worry, I am learning each day to practise humility, in yielding all my fears and worries.
This trip is not about Laura Padula, or the hundreds of other racers preparing for this adventure. This trip is about reaching, empowering, serving and loving on the beautiful gems throughout the nations, in need of our support. This has been the reason behind all of the trips throughout the years. The funny thing though, is through each trip I have mentally prepared to somehow pour out and bring change in one way or another, but God has always found a way to show me that I have not given half as much, as these beautiful gems have given me.
I have been questioned about the direction of my life; what’s next, what will come from this all, etc. I obviously have not lived the textbook 9-5 job, married with kids life (yet) ha-ha, and to be honest I can’t answer what is next or where I am going, but I can say that I would not change anything about my life for a second. These adventures, the missions, the children, the sex workers, the risks, the humbling and teaching of what love looks like, has been more than anything that I could have ever asked for.
I am so very grateful for everyone who has and will continue to support me through these trips. For believing in the mission and the understanding of unity, coming together for a common cause, and for contributing the missing puzzle pieces to this ultimate puzzle of oneness.
