Today I woke up to the sound of snapping branches and the chill of a Georgia morning. Sitting in my unfamiliar tent in an unfamiliar forest, I took a moment to think of the day before – of arriving at training camp with feelings of apprehension and a backpack heavy enough to tip me over. I was welcomed by friendly staff and other World Racers preparing to go on the mission field in two months. Already, I can tell that the members of my squad that I will be traveling with are unique individuals who have much to offer. I had the opportunity to talk with Aryne, a bright soul and authentic conversationalist who opened up to me about why she is going on the World Race.
Aryne seeks growth in this season of her life. She wants to be stretched as a person and foster a more intimate relationship with God, both of which are admirable goals that require intentionality and a courage that is not found in the ordinary. “I find such comfort in my bubble and every day routine,” she shared, “and I believe that breaking out of that will change me completely”. To be changed completely, from the inside out, is nothing short of an ominous task, particularly when nothing is particularly wrong with life as it is. Aryne is a nursing major in the middle of college; she is content with her career path, as well as her job as a nanny to two young children she adores. It would be untrue to claim that the state of her life as it currently is makes it a dissatisfying experience for her. However, the desire of her heart is not for the comfort, the routine, the fog that she is securely trapped in. Rather, she wants to build a different life for herself; she seeks a new a strength, one firmly founded in Christ.
Aryne acknowledges that presently, she feels affixed to weakness at times. This weakness manifests itself in several fears she possesses about the coming Race, fears that are inevitably shared by many Racers, ingrained in all similar to the way all 40 of us shared a battle to fall asleep last night amidst the spiders below and the stars above. Some fears that Aryne revealed are those of failing, not being able to finish the Race, not fitting in with her team, and being judged by others.
Despite the reality of these concerns, Aryne’s overwhelming excitement is evident in the light in her eyes as she speaks of what she looks forward to. She is enthusiastic about growing closer to her team, being exposed to different cultures, and helping those in need. Of particular note is her eagerness to learn what her closer relationship with God is going to look like. She is on a path to personal and spiritual growth, and I am convinced that the unflinching way she faces reality, along with the grace of God, will carry her along to a successful finish.
