It is so difficult to put the emotions and experiences of World Race training camp into words. As I sit here, the day after the most intense ten days of my life, I don’t even know how to begin to express the excessive feelings still reeling around inside of me.
I experienced so many firsts this past week and a half. I killed the first of many tent spiders. I took my first bucket shower. I experienced the presence and power of the Holy Spirit like never before. I met the men and women who will be my family for the next year for the first time.
I learned so much about myself, about God, and about my squadmates.
I learned that I will probably never feel completely clean again, that smell is relative, that Febreze is an acceptable form of perfume, and that baby wipes are your best friends.
I learned that it’s okay to dance like a fool, that it’s okay to cry, and that I don’t have to apologize for my emotions.
I learned that my tent is a haven, that I can sleep pretty much anywhere, and that God speaks to you in porta potties.
I learned not to hold back in worship and not to form judgments about others without first learning their hearts.
I learned that the World Race will be challenging, but that with God and the support of my teammates, we can survive and thrive through anything.
Training camp was the most mentally, physically, and spiritually exhausting experience of my life, but I grew so much in so many ways.
I can’t wait to continue this journey in Albania in less than a month. I can’t wait to see what God is doing and what he will do all over the world.
I can’t wait to do this thing.
