ONE WEEK. I repeat, just one week until training camp begins in Atlanta. It is absolutely insane to think that as I try to get all the last minute, little things done. Leaving the country for a year takes a lot of work! But, all the love I’ve received for the last week has been so overwhelming, prep has hardly seemed like a chore.
It all started with my mom taking me to a baseball game! Y’all dont understand how much missing the season when the Rays will win the World Series is weighing on me! Then I got to speak at a Rotary meeting about my trip, emphasizing human trafficking, which is a passion of mine. Then a Mason’s meeting. I met so many lovely people at these and was encouraged by them as they were so excited to hear about my trip.
Next came a yard sale fundraiser at a friends house. First off, she is an amazing woman of God and we had such thought-provoking conversation about so many different, spiritual things. THEN, I was blessed to have a stranger who came to the yard sale pray over my and my squad – he works with an international church planting ministry! The next day I met a couple who are Christians from India. When I met them and they were telling my about the northern region and the unreached people there, I just started tearing up. I couldn’t help but think of how good God is to create all these opportunities to meet people – to encourage them and be encouraged.
And I haven’t stopped crying since!
Because that evening I went to a wedding shower and engagement party. Two of my very best friends are getting married while I’m away – one in July and one in August. I cant believe I’m missing these, but cant wait to get back and hang with these kids and hear all about married life. The night was so sweet … literally, I ate pie and cookies and all kinds of sweet treats!
The next day was my very last Sunday in my home church. It was so bitter sweet as they prayed for me and people came up to me after service. Tears were just leaking as I hugged everyone and they wished me well. And THEN I watched my little brother perform in Les Mis as Jean ValJean and KILL it. I was so proud!! But, that wasn’t all: one of the mothers of my sister’s voice students donated to my trip after she and my mom talked about it! I was shocked – I’d never even seen this woman before!
Guys, I dont normally cry this much, but I just cant help it. I’m not even emotional because I’m going to miss people or things so much (of course, I WILL, but that’s just not it). I am SO full. So full of love from God and from others. I can’t imagine stuffing any more blessings and joy inside.
But, what is even crazier and more exciting is, in the next 11 months those limits will be stretched further and further. We’ve talked about how hard it will be, but, y’all, I just know my mind if going to be BLOWN by all the people I meet and things I see. God is gonna work, and I’m privileged to be part of it.
So, to answer the question everyone has been asking: I’M READY.
