Quick update!
For the last week I have been in Atlanta, preparing & training with my team for our first few weeks in France! Paris, La Ville Lumière, the City of Light, I could not be more excited to begin my race in such a beautiful place. It is an honor to have the chance to come alongside this city, which has become a major center for refugees. As many as 100 new refugees arrive every day in Paris & we have the opportunity to go love these people who are so often neglected & dehumanized in this crisis.
The situation here can seem very overwhelming & finding a solution can feel impossible, but I cannot help but find hope in their motto, “Fluctuat nec mergitur” which translates to, “She is tossed by the waves, but does not sink.” Even through trouble & darkness here in Paris, there is also light & life. Even in the midst of the waves, she is not sinking. This motto reminds me to ask myself what I will stand for? What is worth fighting for? What is worth sacrificing? Surely it is for whatever is true. Whatever is honorable. Whatever is just. Whatever is pure. Whatever is lovely. Whatever is commendable.
I have so much to learn here, & am trying to soak it all in as it comes. One of my dear friends said this, “I don’t know how much I believe in coming into a culture that is far different than my own and trying to “make a difference”. That is never my goal. I do believe in going to these cultures and letting it touch your eyes to see and letting it kiss your ears to hear. I believe in going low & slow and I believe that love must look like something. I am the one being changed.” While I am here, I want to be a voice to those who need one, to share the stories of this city, & I am determined to see Paris stand firm in her calling, she will not sink! She will keep fighting for justice & honor, & will see the beauty in humanity.
Thank you all for reading & following along on my journey! Quick update as far as fundraising goes, I am 67% funded which is amazing!! Thank you to everyone who has supported me, I wouldn’t be here with out you!
Prayer Request: My team & I would appreciate your prayers as we look for another place to stay next week! Thank you!
Be in touch soon! Xx Emily
(I was hoping to be able to add a few photos, so far the wifi has not been good enough to do so! Hopefully soon, so be on the look out!)
