There’s a lie going around that says you don’t need anyone in life, that independence is the highest form of success. Some people buy into this lie and reject before being rejected. Some people naturally fall into living this lie because of a lack of intentionality and cultivation of relationships.
When life is hard it’s easy to revert to a one man plan, a lonely island of self preservation. Rejection is one of people’s biggest fears right above death. Not only is rejection one of people’s biggest fears it’s one of the fears that comes true most often. So there is a validity to it and that’s what is the most troubling. We will be rejected and we will reject. One thing stands true though and that is that we still need relationships and that is how we grow.
As the months go by I’ve been understanding this concept more and more, leaning on my team and giving and receiving love. As I sit back and think of all the people I have met around the world, all the people I have grown to know and love on my squad, it’s interesting to note how one of the most important things in life is love and how it doesn’t run out like water or money.
Love and relationships are some of the most important aspects of life and also one of the hardest to maintain. We are all flawed and we fail our friends and family often.
So as I start this new month in Swaziland with a new team I reflect back on how important Team Echo was in making me feel loved. I am excited to to have them live in different parts of the USA to visit them in the future. Thanks for putting up with my indecision when I was faced with endless menus in Nepal or cutting me off of coffee in Vietnam since I couldn’t handle their strong but delicious coffee. Thanks for keeping an eye out for souvenirs and making sure I had my GoPro. Thanks for the back rubs, head pettings, the cuddle times, and awkward hugs. I will cherish those memories and watch those videos over and over again when I need a fix of Ms. Kim’s crazy dance moves or when I want to see another glimpse of the Himalayas. Sorry for my selfishness at times, my lack of cooking skills, my lack of patience at times and for ever failing you guys. I’m thankful for the times of worship and prayer we shared and for making space for the Lord to work in our lives.
I’m also excited to start another season, thankful to have Brooke by my side again and for the new faces I will get to know. I will see you all around but I know it won’t be the same because that’s what life is all about; relationships and also changes. These next months will be a crazy ride and I’m expectant and hopeful!
