A year ago, I was reading every World Race packing blog I could find. I carefully copied and pasted information into a Word document, then sorted it into categories, listing the pros and cons of each item I would need (from headlamps to tents to shoes to toothbrushes) from the dozen or so blogs I read. I was determined I was going to bring the perfect amount of things and exactly what I would want and need. I wouldn't be lacking anything, but I wouldn't have too much either. I spent the summer trying on different backpacks, weighing clothes, and finding just the right, lightest, most comfortable sleeping pad. I just knew I was set for this 11-month journey!
And yet, here I sit in month 10 on a sleeping pad that occasionally decides to deflate, an airporter with a dozen or so holes, stained clothes that I'm tired of wearing that smell like Africa, a daypack I picked up 3 months into the Race because the first one ripped, no computer because it was stolen, and a tent I've barely used.
So future racers, here's the truth: You will not always be happy with everything you've brought on the Race. You will get tired of wearing the same clothes over and over (even if you usually wear the same clothes over and over at home… it's just nice to have options sometimes). Even if you spend hours and hours making lists, pouring over packing blogs, and trying on backpacks, you will forget something, bring something you wish you didn't, or wish you had gotten a different brand of something. There is no such thing as a perfect packing blog.
My advice? Let it all go now. Read a few blogs, get a general idea of what you want to bring, but don't spend hours debating. It's 11 months. That's all. Spend the time you're saving by not worrying about what to bring on prayer- praying for your Race, God's provision and protection, your teammates and squadmates, and contentment in all situations and circumstances. Worry less about what you're going to take and more about what you're going to bring back with you: A deeper trust in our great, loving, and faithful God. It's far more important than anything you will take with you!
"….for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."
~Philippians 4:11b-13
