[[Note: I wrote this back in November, in the last month of my race. I wasn’t sure when to share the post, but something about today feels like good timing.]]
Hey!
First off, you rock.
Travelling the world is a glamorous idea. Some places are more expensive than others; cleaner, dirtier, more crowded, louder, etc. It may be what you expect, it may be completely opposite of what you expect.
I want to let you know- your journey is your journey. This is something I have had to walk through (haha pun) time & again. Your journey will not look like one of your teammates; your squad will have a different journey than another squad.
Hear this:
Papa has placed you with these people, in this season, in this area of the world, for such a time as now.
Don’t get caught in comparison.
Don’t get caught in comparing your footsteps to your teammate’s.
You belong here.
Whether your feelings & emotions line up with this statement or not, it’s true. (“IT’S TRUUUUEE!” In the words of Clint Bokelman)
Papa has plans for you here.
Papa has not forgotten you.
You are not a disappointment.
Wherever you are right now, in the midst of your 11 months, preparing to launch, back after the year & wondering what you’re doing next, Papa has an extravagantly wild & amazing plan & purpose for YOU.
// I am learning & experiencing this phrase, “I really love you. I love you right now.”
Raise your hand if you truly, deep down in your bones believe this statement.
I will go through seasons I believe this statement & my countenance shows it.
I will go through seasons I partially believe this statement.
I will go through seasons I don’t believe this statement to be true.
Where are you?
Look, as cliche as this sounds, I am learning all that matters is if I believe He loves me. If I don’t believe that truth, then I am missing out on Him being who he is. I am denying His nature & will struggle and trip as I walk through the day.
When I believe He loves me, really truly loves me, I allow Him to be Himself.
I allow Him to love all of me. Not only pieces. Not only the pieces I pretty and put on display. Not only my strengths.
//
I also want you to know this- don’t feel less than or that you missed something amazing if you have a completely opposite opinion or a polar opposite experience than another.
If you’re like me & don’t have a big strong personality but you feel like 99% of your squad does, don’t get caught in comparison! Don’t get trapped in lies!
As you will learn (or already have), not every person processes the same & that’s okay!
//
You’re on a journey unique as your DNA. It’s tailor made.
So celebrate your journey. Celebrate the triumphs. Celebrate the failures. Celebrate the moments of vulnerability. Celebrate the memories. Celebrate the journey you’re on. And don’t you dare get caught up in comparison, it’s not worth your time or thoughts. You’re far too amazing to question your existence.
I’m with you, cheering you on where ever you may be today.
