Something happened the day of this picture that brought back pain that I had been suppressing for several years. We were about to do a service in the barrios and I was doing everything I could to keep myself together. I didn’t want to think about it and I certainly didn’t want to cry. I went for a walk down the beach to try and clear my head so I could be fully present for the service. When I came back I noticed a couple World Racers praying so I walked over to them. One hugged me, the other took my hand, and they asked if they could pray for me. As they prayed, I let my guard down and started to cry. I had given my camera to a little girl earlier to take pictures and she captured this moment.
I actually really hate this picture but someone here (who’s not a World Racer) saw it and told me that I needed to post it on my blog. When I asked why, they said it was a special moment because I was obviously upset and there were people there to pray for me. I realized then how much I take this community and lifestyle for granted. Any time I need someone to laugh with, pray with, cry to, vent to, lean on, or even just skip alongside, there’s always someone there. When I’m frustrated, hurt, scared, or lonely, someone will pray for me. When I’m happy, excited, or feeling just plain silly someone will goof off with me. Living in true community has been the most difficult thing for me to learn on the Race but it’s also the one thing I’ll miss the most.
