The goodbyes have been said. The celebrations have been had. The bags are packed (with blood, sweat and tears). And the reality of the adventure ahead is sinking in.
Words can not begin to articulate how grateful I am for these past 3 years of my life!! They have been filled with laughter, sorrow, joy, grief, memories, tears and adventures!! The depth in the relationships I have here is immeasurable and to say that I will miss them immensely does not even begin to touch the surface!!!! In other words, I would not have traded this past season for all the countries and all the adventures in the world!!! So, thank you!! Thank you everyone who made this season so remarkable!!!
But, this post is not about the past. Rather, it is about the future…The adventures, the unknowns, the friendships, the tears, the laughs and the memories yet to be.
This is a letter to my pre-race self:
Emilie,
Today you embark on the biggest journey of your life. You have spent your time saying goodbye. You have stressed out about packing and filled up on all the California food you could.
You have tried to imagine all that’s in store. You have tried to prepare for all the possible scenarios. You have made your list and checked it a thousand times.
But let me tell you something, you can’t even begin to imagine or prepare for all of the things that are in store for you!!
Here are some things I want you to remember as you go and change the world…
You are gonna be just fine!!! When things seem to go a million miles a minute and you can’t catch your breath, just stop and remember… you are just fine! There is NOTHING you can’t handle and there is NOTHING the Lord won’t give you wisdom in.
You are gonna see things, do things, eat things, try things that your wildest dreams couldn’t have come up with!! Do them ALL WITHOUT FEAR! You are brave and adventurous, live up every opportunity you get. And live it to the fullest!!
Some pearls of wisdom for ya:
-You are living your life long dream. Don’t forget it and don’t discount it.
-Explore when you can!
-Make friends as often as possible!
-Have random dance parties!
-Make people smile!
-Laugh until you cry!
-Don’t worry and stress out about things that don’t deserve the space.
-Be quick to forgive, slow to anger and rich in love.
-Say yes more often than you say no.
-Be generous with your time, gifts and resources.
Emilie, this is your time! This is your season
It’s gonna be crazy and awesome and full of the unexpected.
Remember that you are brave, fearless, discerning, wise, strong, kind, compassionate and steadfast. Trust your Abba, and trust in who he made you to be!
Enjoy the ride girl!! It’s gonna be epic!!
Your’s truly,
-Self
