Before I left for the Race I received an email from a family friend, who I refer to as my second dad. In this email he very gently warned me what was going to happen on the Race because he experience something similar. I still remember nodding to everything written until I read the sentence that made me burst into tears.
The sentence was, “We know you’ll come home a different Burt”.
I read that sentence over and over again. I didn’t want to come back a different Burt. I wanted to go on the World Race and come back the same person. I was proud of the person I had become.
Now, it is month ten of the eleven and I can confidently and proudly say that I am a new Brittany. Yes I believe many of my characteristics are the same; however, some have been strengthened, added, and eliminated. This journey around the world has taught me so much about my Heavenly Father and myself. I would provide a list for you all but I believe there is beauty in discovery. Just like my discovery about God and myself on the Race, you’ll be able to discover how God has changed me when I return home.
Discovery isn’t supposed to be a instant response, but an adventurous journey.
My journey is not going to end when the Race is over, I see it as the beginning. Once I return I know God is going to open many doors to share His goodness. I am ecstatic to share with family, friends, and strangers about what God did and what He is doing!
With that being said I want to conclude this blog with the rest of the email my second dad sent me- “We know you’ll come home a different Burt. And we’re ok with that. There will be things about your current life which you’ll find unacceptable next year. Remember that those you love and who truly love you will ALWAYS be there for you, but may struggle to relate to the new you once you come home. Please be patient with them, they’ll just want to love on you the only way they know – to the old you”.
I would love and appreciate if you all could join me in prayer for my and your heart as I get ready to return home. It’s going to be a transition, but I believe with prayer it will be a good and healthy transition. Pray for patience, pray for gentleness, and pray for love.
With love,
The changed Brittany
