Well, I am currently sitting in my hotel room, enjoying the last few days of 1st world culture. January 2015 Squads have arrived in Atlanta for launch! I am overwhelmed. But in a completely good way. This week hasn’t been the easiest. As I prepared to leave my home, family, and friends, I was overwhelmed with packing. Many of us were posting to Facebook and Instagram, “#thestruggleisreal”. But I managed to weigh in a only 42 pounds for my checked luggage. And some of us are already threatening to leave some clothing behind. I had the privilege of celebrating my birthday before leaving this past week. After an incredible “year of celebration: 2015“, I had a huge stack of letters and several hilarious photos to take with me, to view and read throughout the year. Thanks to all who wrote notes of encouragement. They will be a wonderful treat, and totally worth taking up space. After saying tearful good byes to my nearest friends, and trying not to sob too much at the airport while saying good bye to my mom, I found myself crossing through airport security; I’m finally moving forward on this awesome journey.
A really cool experience I had on the flight. I sat next to an elderly gentlemen. I’m not typically much of a talker, but as the flight attendant offered refreshments, I noticed how broken his english was. I also had heard him speaking Spanish at the gate. After arguing with myself, and praying for a little bit of courage, I finally got the guts to speak to him. “Habla espanol?” He smiled. For the next half hour, we were able to converse back and forth. I will admit I didn’t always catch everything, and found my self nodding a lot. But I’m sure he couldn’t fully understand myself at times. I made sure he new, I needed some practice, as it’s been a while since I’ve had an opportunity to use it. I explained to him what I was doing and where I’m going. He pulled out a cross necklace he was wearing, and showed me his ring with a cross as well. It was a sweet experience, and as we exited the plane we shook hands and wished each other well. Lord help me as I know Spanish will be necessary for the next 3 months. I know He will be my strength when I feel overwhelmed by language barriers. My mom gave me a bookmark before I left:
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
1 Corinthians 12:9
Arriving in Atlanta, it was a heat wave, in the double digits. But the wind is still quite bitter. Not to rub it in or anything, but in a few more days, I’ll be in Quito, Ecuador. 🙂 But there is certainly a sense of excitement and anticipation. Smiles are everywhere, and hugs are plentiful. And hearing parents pray tonight for us, the World Racers was such a sweet time. And I equally enjoyed hearing the Racers pray for the parents. I’m excited to see how the Lord moves over the next few days. More good byes will be said, but the temporary sadness will be worth it.
Thank you again! (I know I say this a lot…but I mean it.) I never thought I’d be 97% funded at launch. Just another way the Lord is confirming this trip. I know there will be bumps along the way, but His grace will remain sufficient.
Much love,
Chels
