Let me preface this blog by letting y'all know that Carolyne Cody Brown has no idea I am writing this blog, nor has she instigated anything I'm about to say. In fact, to be completely frank, I believe that some of what I am going to share is a mystery even to her! 
This is what happens when you leave your blog site unlocked on your teammates computer. 
In the past 5.5 months, Cody has been the most challenging person for me to get along with. We need to work on our communication. We need to work on meeting eachother halfway. We need to work on vulnerability and intentionality. We're both willing to do that. Though we don't have a friendship that necessarily meshes instantly, we have a friendship we're willing to fight for because we know that the friendships you work for, are often the ones the Lord uses mightily. Below are some reasons I am willing to fight for it.
Cody Brown is an incredible woman. When I met her in October, the first thing I noticed was that she's honestly one of the most beautiful women I've ever met. Her outward beauty is obvious, but if one takes a deeper look, her eyes show the beauty of her spirit. Her character shines brightly for the Lord, and she walks in integrity and passion. Her free spirit is inspiring, and her words, both constructive and positive, pour love. She has a Seekers Heart and an adventurous spirit that brings joy and light everywhere she goes.
In the last 5.5 months, I have seen Cody grow and change in mighty ways. She is willing to ask the hard questions, and willing to meet you there. She is accepting even if she doesn't exactly understand. She doesn't judge. She doesn't condemn. She listens to the Spirit's leading, and follows in obedience as much as any one woman can. She seeks His face. She seeks His will. She seeks to be a Proverbs 31 woman and an Imitator of Christ (Eph5:1). She seeks to spread the Kingdom everywhere she goes.
I've seen Cody accept stoned gypsy's and show them the love of Christ. I've seen her do back breaking labor up to her knees in manure to build a dam for a fish farm that will feed hundreds of families. I've seen her run out of her comfort zone, arms wide open, to hold a terrified and screaming child living with autism. I've seen her stand her ground, firm in her faith, even though she thinks she's an absolute doubter. I've seen her teach english, math, and science to kids in 3 countries, even though she thinks she has no patience. I've seen her meet people of all ages and backgrounds on the soccer field to find common ground and show them the way a Christian walks her faith. I've seen her stand beside a heartbroken teammate, reach out a hand, and lead her on to hope and courage, emboldening her to walk a difficult path, and be proud to stand by her side.
I've seen Cody Brown do a lot of things. Miraculous things. So many more things than I have the space or ability to share.
I just want to thank you all for encouraging and allowing my new sister to be out here on the field, serving the Lord with all she's got. I am truly honored to walk this road beside her, and am humbled by her servant leadership, and so very proud of the amazing woman that she is, and continues to become. In that, Cody still needs prayers and financial support. She needs to raise approximately $3000 by July 1. I know it sounds like a lot, but its nothing in the ocean of God's currency. Please bring her before the Lord prayerfully and if led, donate and keep my team leader here. I can't imagine this race without her.
Cody Brown, thanks for being my leader, my friend, and my sister. You are a rare gem that truly makes me want to be a better woman. Love you lady. Prov31:8-10.
-Lizzie
