Some days are harder than others.
Today was one of those days.
Today was a day where I missed the World Race something fierce.
I have been home for a little over two months now. I thought by now I might have processed the race a little better. But here I am, still struggling to find the words. I have been searching for the perfect words, words to wrap up this year, words that will describe it, encapsulate it. But today, words are failing me. My words can’t capture the way God worked this year, the way He changed me. My words can’t capture the joy I’ve found or the way my heart has been broken for God’s people. My words can’t capture the love I have for my squad. Some days, days like today, when I miss the race with everything in me, all I can do, is look back at pictures. The pictures evoke something in me, they remind me of the beauty of this year. Emotions well within me as I look back on pictures from the Dominican Republic. Memories of “would you rather”, long chats over VIA packets, and nights on the rooftop run through my mind. Laughter comes when I look back at the time my team dressed up as pirates to appease our crazy hostel owner. Feelings of longing rise up as I see pictures of Africa. Memories of Dzoole Village make me want to cry, as my heart longs to go back. Pictures of Thailand bring thankfulness. Thankfulness for my team and the way they taught me self-acceptance and to always choose joy. On days like today, I look through my pictures, these portals to a seemingly different life-time, and remember with thankfulness the beauty of the World Race. They remind me of the life I want to live. They remind me of God’s goodness and faithfulness. They bring me back to the person I want to be. They challenge me to live life on Earth as it is in Heaven.
And so although I can’t find the words, I can share the pictures.
These people and these places have stolen my heart. They are forever a part of me; they are the best parts of me. I am so incredibly thankful, and my heart is so very full.
To my community, my family, my supporters, thank you. Thank you is not enough to express my deep gratitude. I sincerely could not have done this without your undying support and love. From the encouraging words, prayers, and financial support, I am so very thankful for the way that you have loved and supported me.
So here is to one season ending and hope that an ever better one is beginning. Here is to celebrating a year of wide open living, deep-welling joy, and a taste of God’s enormous love for you and I. Here is to sleeping in tents under mango trees and sunsets so beautiful you want to freeze the moment forever. Here is to laughter, tears, and living with an open heart. Here’s to celebrating the World Race and the beautiful blessing it was in my life!
Many of you have asked what is next, and I am so happy to share that I will be teaching fourth grade in Fort Worth! God’s provision has been so abundant and I am confident that He is calling me to the classroom! Continue to keep me in your prayers as I enter into this new season!
–All my love,
Annie
