At camp they had us do about 47 group activities throughout the 10 days. My FAVORITE… Actually, the whole experience was a group activity. The introvert in me began screaming as soon as I saw the crowds of people excitedly greeting me, jumping up and down in their bold, colored spirit week attire as we drove up to the cabin. I even said out loud to my Aunt, “This is the opposite of what I want.” My Aunt, knowing me well, turned around in her seat, locked eyes with me and said, “I know.” We had a conversation the day before of the importance of alone time and people often not respecting the needs of introverts.
I did pretty well, if I do say so myself! There was only ONE instance where I hid in a corner by myself for much needed alone time. Well, I thought I was hiding anyway- turns out everyone saw me practically run into the corner of the deck with my headphones in and head down. Luckily for me, they respected my need for some personal space and did not approach or disturb me- they got it; they understood. I get to live life and serve with this absolutely amazing, selfless group of people for the next year.
One of the activities we had to do was build a tent blindfolded. (We actually did a LOT of activities blindfolded.) Four people blindly followed instructions from two others from afar. Not to brag, but our team completed the task in record timing with practically no confusion or frustration. We trusted the leadership in place, followed instructions, waited our turn, and kept it lighthearted and fun. There was little opportunity for individualism- nobody could accomplish this task relying only on themselves. We relished the chance to share responsibility. The activities at training camp taught me the benefits of working collaboratively with a team vs. taking on a task by yourself. They also reminded me how important reliability and trust are to a friendship.
Everyone on our squad is so willing to put the needs of the group before the needs of any one individual. That kind of self-sacrifice is often buried away by the desire for personal recognition. There is an unspoken, mutual understanding in our group- we have all set this Kingdom Journey as our priority and know what it will take from each of us to generate the most impact. We have built up our group without watering down our individuals and are intentionally using our strengths and weaknesses.
At training camp, leadership talked about this “honeymoon phase” we are all experiencing. They told us our patience and understanding will fade and our true colors will show. I don’t think they know us all as well as they think they do! I have no doubt that things will get tense and difficult, but I have SO much faith in this squad and I know we will be able to overcome any obstacle and remember our true focus on this mission.
Since being home, I have been reminded on a daily basis of how wonderful and deliberate these people are! Phone calls, texts, visits, and letters show me just how powerful encouragement and dedication are. There is so much LOVE in this squad.
The past few weeks have been tough. A lot of friends have become distant and plans have fallen through. As much as losing some of these friendships hurts, I know that come January I’ll be greeted at the airport by some pretty amazing people who share my passion for flipping this world upside down. These next 38 days are going to be bittersweet!
Thank you all for your continuous prayer and support!
Look how full my board is getting! So close!!
