At the beginning of the Race, I was excited to go to South Africa, but not as much as I was for Thailand. I thought of South Africa as a more advanced Kenya, whereas Thailand was completely new territory. After my time in Costa Rica, I couldn’t wait to get to South Africa. Costa Rica was a hard time for me, so I was glad to step into something new. Upon landing on African soil, I immediately felt peaceful and right at home. Because of my past experiences of community love in Kenya, I couldn’t wait to live in the midst of it once again. I literally felt like I came home for a short time. Ministry was exciting because our first month was construction on the school, Global Leadership Academy. I was glad to have a break from kids, so having something new to do was welcoming. Working with kids at Beats & Books was enjoyable, too. I felt like I wasn’t there long enough to really develop any deep relationships with the kids, but I did what I could in the little time I did have. I walked through several holidays in South Africa, such as Christmas, my birthday, and Valentine’s Day. Those days were some of my hardest because I love spending any holiday with family. As a result, those days were more difficult to fully enjoy because of the separation.
In all honesty, South Africa proved to be more fruitful and wonderful than I could ever have imagined. Part of my heart was left there, just like it did with Kenya. The only thing really calling me back is the people. I developed so many loving relationships that I want to return to South Africa all the more. I learned to recognize what love looks like and how to receive it. The Lord really showed me His love in Costa Rica through His Spirit, so He used people, especially men, to show me brotherly love that should always be shown between Christians. I’m really grateful for Mulder because the Lord used him the most to get to me. There were so many small moments where I clearly saw and felt God’s love as well as selfless love, and they were such beautiful moments.
In South Africa, I learned how to put on a proper braai (barbeque but more community driven), how to sockey (mix of swing dancing and waltzing), and how to form relationships wholeheartedly, not holding back despite the short amount of time with the natives. I truly loved South Africa, and it took me a while to process even leaving the country and move on to Thailand. It took me a few days just to process leaving the people. However, I believe the Lord will do even more in Thailand so I am finally excited to continue with my journey as it’s laid out. Here’s to the last stage of this adventure!
