From even before the Race started, I wanted to write a pass-down-wisdom blog for the wee future Racers that have so much to learn on their year-long journey. But really, I feel like there are enough of those out there, and I’m not going to write anything new or revolutionary. The only thing I really have to say is that you will not starve in Africa. Trust me. The last thing you will need to worry about is having enough food.
The most important thing I’ve learned this year: trust.
Trust God. Trust your squad leaders, both veterans and newbies. Trust your team leader. Trust your teammates. Trust the other people on your squad. Trust your finance person. Trust the squad logistics team. Trust yourself.
Trust that you’re going to get there. Wherever “there” is, you will make it. Trust that “there” might not be where you expect it to be, but that it’s where you’re supposed to be. Trust that God is putting you right where he wants you. Trust that the work you’re doing in each country is exactly what you’re supposed to be doing, even if you don’t like it; especially, sometimes, if you don’t like it (and sometimes you won’t).
Trust that your team has been put together for a reason, whether it’s to challenge you or encourage you or teach you. Sometimes it’s all three. Trust that God is working within your team, even if you don’t see it.
Let go of your need to know. Trust that God’s in control, and trust that he’s guiding your leaders. If you are a leader, trust that God is speaking to you. If you’re a control freak (hi, nice to meet you), God is especially looking for your trust (I know this from experience. Ask me about Croatia or Turkey.).
Most of all, trust that God is good, all the time. He’s not going to leave you this year. You might not always feel that close to him all the time, and you might have times where he makes you mad, but he’s good. He’ll remind you of his goodness through your teammates, your squadmates, the people you work with, and the people who support you at home. Yes, it’s cheesy and it’s Christianese, but it’s really true. I’ve had some of the best and worst moments of my life this year, and God has continued reminding me of his goodness through my teammates and the other people on my squad.
Only other thing I can think of: stock up on antiperspirant in the States. Overseas, it’s only deodorant, and I can promise you that you will sweat profusely for at least six of your eleven months. Your teammates can thank me later.
