People ended up asking me a whole lot more questions than I thought, and if I answered all of them in one blog it would probably be a book. If your question isn’t in here and you still want it answered, message me! Please. I won’t remember if you don’t.
This was so. much. fun. I’m thankful for curious people and good questions.
A B O U T N O W
What do you miss most about home?
My people. 100%. My best friends, my parents, my siblings. I miss being able to have constant access to them and always know how they’re doing. Also, just simple things. I value quality time a lot, so being able to just be WITH my people is something that I miss.
Favorite thing about Team Esther? (the team that I’m leading)
Their laughter. There isn’t one time that they’re together and I don’t either 1. hear them laughing, or 2. laugh with them. It’s pretty much the greatest ever.
What has been the most challenging and the most rewarding part of team leading?
Most challenging… for sure day-to-day ministry. I’ve discovered that I thrive the most when I’m creating intentional one-on-one relationships. Doing ministry everyday drains me, and I look forward to the end of the day when I hang out with my team, debrief the day, and have really good conversations. Most rewarding… realizing that I have things to offer people. People want to hear what I have to say and they want to learn from me. It’s my responsibility to speak up and utilize my gifts.
A B O U T M Y R A C E
What’s the difference between Team Abundance (my team from my Race last year) in their first months on the Race and your team now?
Feedback. In the first months on the Race, my team struggled a T O N with false harmony. There were issues that needed to be addressed, but none of us were willing to address them. We brushed things under the rug, put on our smiling faces, and pretended that everything was fine when it really wasn’t. Team Esther is honest and bold. When things need to be addressed, they seek wise counsel, pray about it, and then bring it to the team (or to someone one-on-one) extremely quickly. They know what it looks like to fight for people, and know that “fighting” for someone doesn’t mean ignoring issues and tolerating behavior. They are gracious and kind when they speak, but not afraid to address things… even if it means rocking the boat.
A B O U T D E E P T H I N G S
What are some verses you use for comfort when you’re going through a hard time?
Dang. This is really good. I don’t usually turn to any verse in particular, but I love reading Psalms. It’s honest, and authentic, and really beautifully written. That’s the place I find myself flipping to the quickest when I’m distressed/frustrated/emotional.
Now that you have almost completed the World Race… what’s the dream?
Good gosh. I have a lot of abstract dreams, but not anything super solid or set in stone. I’d love to own an art studio at some point. I’d love to do something with photography. I’d love to get a degree for some kind of counseling/therapy/psychology. I’m honestly not sure, so that’s a real good question.
What is one of the sweetest things the Lord has ever told you?
“Just sit with me.”
A B O U T M I S S I O N S
How has the World Race transformed your view of Christ?
The Race has exposed me to the Holy Spirit. The World Race has not transformed my view of Christ, Christ has transformed my view of Christ. The World Race was simply a tool that he used to reveal more of himself to me. I grew up going to church, but I don’t remember someone ever explaining the Holy Spirit to me. I had no idea that God could be so close, so powerful, and so tangible in everyday life.
What’s the most physically challenging part of the World Race?
Daily ministry. Ministry varies depending on where you’re at, but most of the time it’s extremely tiring. You have to discipline your mind to invest and be diligent even when you’re exhausted (and sometimes extremely hot and sweaty).
What are some ways to prepare yourself spiritually, physically, and emotionally before going on the Race?
Read your Bible. When you’re abiding in the Lord, when your heart is aligned with his, you will have everything that you need.
What your best advice for someone who’s going on short term missions? Fundraising tips?
Don’t try to save the world. You are not entitled to feeling “useful” and “purposeful.” People’s role in short-term missions is to partner and come alongside ministries that already exist. It’s not your job to start something new. So, just ask your ministry how you can best support and love them. And be willing to do things that don’t line up with your exceptions of overseas missions.
Fundraising… I sent out SO MANY support letters for my gap year last year, and also for team leading this year. They brought in all the money I need to go. I also asked my church, and they funded half of my expenses for team leading! Learn how to explain your heart and the heart behind the ministry you’re volunteering for. People want to be a part of something that they can connect with.
T H E F U N N I E S
Would you rather pee out of your mouth or nose?
Nose. For sure. Can’t taste it that way.
Do you know how to crochet?
Heck yeah I do. #grandmalife
Hey you, thanks for reading this. I like being asked questions, so if you have any more, text me. email me. call me (when I get back to America).
Okay byyyye.
-Lyss
