As you can read by the title, this blog post is going to answer the most common question I get from people: WHY? Why go on a mission trip? Why the World Race? Why right now?
Here’s where I say: WHY NOT? I know, I know, a simple “why not?” will not answer anyone’s question but if I were to write an answer as simple as possible that would be it. But of course, if you click on this blog post, you came for the long answer and with that I will give it to you.
I first heard about the World Race a few years ago through multiple friends who either have done it or know a mutual friend who has. I was instantly fascinated by the idea of it all. While still being in high school and balancing various commitments, I was not sure how realistic this dream of mind could be.
In January/February of 2020 I researched much more about the World Race Gap Year and even almost started an application. I had a few doubts and concerns, and by the time I was certain I would still apply, Covid-19 entered the USA and shifted almost everyone’s plans. Due to this, I never did get a chance to apply and instead of taking a gap year I agreed to go to college once and for all.
Now being November, and having completed three full months of college, I felt like my life was missing something.
I knew that my life was more than spending hours on zoom. I had an eagerness to re-look at programs that the world race had to offer. Only a few days ago I discovered the Semesters programs and knew this was something important I needed to consider.Later that same day, I attended this Christian program at Texas A&M called “Breakaway”, and in the guy’s sermon he discussed mission trips. After the guy spent nearly 30 minutes describing the importance of them, he ended with the words, “if you’re looking for a sign, this is it.” That very minute I knew what I needed to do and after much research & conversations with my family I got the “green light” and began my application.
What I just described some people might say was a “coincidence”, but I am here to tell you that it was far from just that!
My life has always longed for something more and I felt that God has been trying to show me this. I have always prayed for God to reveal to me my purpose in life, and I realized that the same day to day cycle I have been living for the last couple of years was far from that. I knew I was ready for some kind of change, whatever it was going to be.
All of this goes to say that after so much thought and tons of prayers, I was accepted into this program and chose to officially make my decision to go. I decided to listen to what God was trying to tell me and follow his plans for my life. I want to use the life God has given me to do something great and who knows maybe even change the world.
I am eager to work with so many different people across the United States, and share the greatest story to those in Central America. I know the people I will meet both on my team and in Central America will inspire me and challenge me to grow. I cannot wait to step out of my comfort zone as God reveals so much to me through this experience.
I am completely overjoyed with this decision and cannot wait to see where this big adventure takes me 🙂
“Many are the plans in a person’s heart,
but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21
If you wish to hear more about my journey with the World Race and learn more about where my head is at through all of this, subscribe to my blog and be notified whenever I post.
If you wish to donate to my mission you can on this website or through my venmo @catherinetaylor10 !!!
Again, to anyone who has already donated, shown support, or encouraged me throughout all of this, I am so thankful. Thank you for following along my journey!!
Much more to come soon,
SO much love <3
cat
