// UNEXPECTED //
If I had to choose one word to fully encompass my experience of the 11-day-long training camp it would be “unexpected.” Training Camp was pretty much what one would expect it to be as far as prepping my team and I for the realities of the race; sleeping in tents, eating things we normally wouldn’t, finding different kinds of bugs in ALL sorts of places and, of course, taking the infamous bucket showers.
But what I didn’t expect was to be healed and filled spiritually. I didn’t expect others to be so raw and open and I definitely didn’t expect that openess to lead to my own vulnerability. I didn’t expect to be freed from shame that I didn’t realize I had been holding onto. I didn’t expect to leave that place with a forever family.
I assumed going into a camp where everyone had the same goal of loving, knowing, and sharing Jesus that there would be spiritual growth and I would get a general idea of what this next year would look like. I had no idea that the people at this organization and the people on my squad would end up becoming “my people.”
// K SQUAD //
The squad I belong to is called K Squad (WOOP WOOP!)
K Squad is made up of 32 different members (23 ladies + 9 guys.)
Within our squad of 32 we have 5 teams.
Our teams weren’t assigned to us until the end of camp. Throughout the week and a half of our stay, we did various team-building excercises with mixed groups of people in our squad that were monitored by mentors and leaders at AIM. The purpose of this was simply for them to see what people worked well together and had the most potential for success as a team.
// TEAM MACACK //
It’s a possibility that I’m biased (and I most definitely am), but I 100%, without a doubt have the very best team.
A big part of why I love the team I’m on is because none of us chose it.
I know that sounds silly, but our team assignments were a result of careful observation and diligent, focused prayer. After our team placements were revealed, I realized the team I was put on was not the team I would have picked for myself. To me, this was God showing me, yet again, that He had something bigger than my expectations already in place.
Now, being on this team, and getting to know each person individually and seeing their strengths has encouraged me more than anything else. I wouldn’t have originally picked this team at first, but only because I hadn’t fully experienced them yet. I hadn’t witnessed their gifts and seen their humility. I had yet to be exposed to their kindness and their genuine love for those around them. I am beyond thrilled to be apart of this team and to come together in a more intimate way as brothers and sisters in Christ.
Without further delay, an intro to Team MACACK:
Carsyn // “Croissant” – Her smile is the shining visual of the obvious joy that’s rooted in her. The words “fun-loving” and “optimistic” are understatements when it comes to describing this nut!
Mike // “Mikey Mike” – Wild and care-free. He always has a great attitude and a willing, ready heart to serve. This guy can easily turn ANY time into a good time!
Clayton // “Clay-tonious” – Two of this guy’s most OBVIOUS traits are his humility and his servant heart. He never stops looking for ways to care for those around him!
Karrie // “Karebear” – She plays the shy card at first, but don’t be fooled! She’s bold, she’s a strong leader, and I’m pretty sure she’s never lost a game of Nerts in her entire life.
Anthony // “Antonio” – Intelligent , assertive, and strong. He’s always ready with a witty comment that’ll have everyone rolling and laughing!
Yours Truly // “Aly-x” – Excited and soooooo ready to learn, love, and serve Jesus with this incredible, God-ordained team! Ready to fully expect the UNEXPECTED!
Thanks for reading!
