When I started the race, the tools and trainings that AIM had us do seemed repetitive. I was certain that I would barely use them during my time on the field and was not enthusiastic about all that they had to offer. Since being on the race for almost seven months now, I have become grateful for many of the things that they taught us as I have applied them to my life. During this past week, two of the tools, the Freedom V and Project Mood Curve, have impacted my thinking in big ways. I have seen how these two activities can help to reflect on the past and plan for the future.
Starting off the race back in September, we were taught on the Freedom V tool. This device is used to explain boundaries and expectations as a person grows and proves themselves responsible and trustworthy. Using the shape of a V, the amount of freedom that someone has increases as they move from bottom to top. It is based on the idea that a person will then set their own boundaries and limitations as they are granted more personal freedom. In the past, I looked at this tool as an excuse for people to put limits on what I can and cannot do. My pride identified this as a leash that my superiors would yank me back on. When I revisited it this past week, I had a change of heart as the Lord showed me the importance of this tool from a leadership standpoint. I discovered that it is a way to create in ourselves more self-control and help others to do the same. Looking back, I see now how this idea was practically implemented in my own life. As my squad’s leadership team has slowly stepped back, giving us more and more freedom, I have developed my own personal expectations as a follower of Christ. Now, God has been teaching me how to yank the leash back on myself when I step out of line.
Similarly, as I have reflected over the last few months, I have used the Project Mood Curve to help me evaluate my time on the race. This tool is used to identify the different stages of a period of time using three zones: A, B, and C. I have found that using this device has highlighted God’s hand in my life. As I looked at my honeymoon phase (A zone) during my first two months, I saw Jesus preparing me for the hard things that I would experience in the future. Likewise, when I studied my dry spell (B zone), I discovered how faithful and patient God was to me. As I enter the final couple of months and begin to soak in all that the Lord has for me, I see how he is truly the best thing that there is. This tool is a great way to break open seasons of our lives and find the glory of God in every aspect.
In closing, these two amazing practices have shown me how to discover what the Lord is doing and has done in my life. If there is ever a time of confusion or anxiety, turning to Jesus and working through these tools can help to bring clarity and peace.
