“A generous person will prosper;
whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” -Proverbs 11:25
If you know me, you know that a lot of people who are near and dear to me live in Athens, Georgia. Some of my closest friends- people who are constantly rooting for me and cheering me on from a far. It’s a town I am thankful for because it’s a home to so many of my people.
One of those people, who have been by my side for years now, is Bailey Frederking. (side note: 4 years to be precise- happy friendiversary!) But Bailey (also known as Bfred) has taught me a lot over the years. She loved me at my darkest, when I’ve stumbled and fallen. She even loved me when I had braces- that’s real people.
I visited my friends in Athens a few days ago, and Bfred invited me over to her home. We hadn’t seen each other in 3 months because she was serving in Kenya with a program called Journey. I had dinner with Bfred, her graciously cooking me a free meal without hesitation. (Some chicken and sweet potatoes and salad if were being specific- here’s a picture!)
I met Bfred’s roomate, Rachel. Rachel had been on the World Race in 2014. She was so excited for me about to embark on this journey that was familiar to her. Bfred and I joined Rachel in her laundry room talking about memories of high school and life together.
Rachel was unloading her dryer and folding t-shirts and clothes, obviously all things she had been wearing recently.
Rachel pulls out this long skirt and without hesitation turns to me and says, “Zahli, something that Bfred has been teaching me recently is a lot about sacrifice. I wore this skirt my whole race and still wear it now, and I want to give it to you.” She continued with, “It’s so light and easy to pack, it is my favorite skirt and I want you to take it with you on your race.”
Bfred later was telling me how she seriously loved this skirt. Something so simple, yet so full of meaning to her.
Rachel so quickly gave me something that meant so much to her. Something she had for 4 years, yet so quickly gave to me because she knew I would benefit from it. Although it was something so small, she sacrificed comfort. It was full of memories. She gave me something she loved and cared for. (Side note: I found Rachel’s Instagram and saw she really did wear that skirt this week)
Rachel so visually taught me about sacrifice. She reminded me how I am about to give up so much for the kingdom over the next 9 months- my family and friends, the comforts of home, and my time that I’ve always considered to be mine- not for me, but for God. A God who has so freakin graciously given to us. There are so many things we consider ours. For some people that’s money, for some that’s time, for some that’s materialistic things. She taught me how we need to give up what we think is ours for the Kingdom– for those who could benefit from what we sacrifice.
I left her house feeling encouraged and fought for- by Bfred and by Rachel, a stranger I had barely even known. So Bfred and Rachel, if you are reading this, thank you for letting me into your lives and for your kindness. I have learned so much from you guys already.
With so much love, Zahli.
Feel free to contact me with any questions! [email protected]
FUNDRAISING UPDATE: I’m so close! Only $3,793 to go people!!!
