Yeah, I’m not. But anyways. How y’all doing?
It’s November 14, 2018, and it seems like November of 2017 was two minutes ago. How did time move this way, and why does it seem to move differently each year?
Regardless I’m here, tapping my keys in the dim light of Ransom, a cafe in Boone, North Carolina, motivated to write.
A couple of amazing things are on my mind as of late.
If I want to document this journey in a real-time, accurate light, I’m going to do it right. Honest.
1. I’m not that excited (right now)
You know by now that in 8.5 months I will be leaving for ~ a year. And while the program I am going on is such an incredible adventure that deserves excitement, I am not excited. In fact, I seldom think of the World Race. You might find this concerning. But I am assuring you that I am completely and utterly blessed to be on this mission track. However, to keep my heart and mind in check, I’ve promised myself that I will stay present.
Still using my daily moments as mission ground. Investing in right here! right now! Which means dedicating rich, intentional time to friends in college, my family, and other pending relationships.
I’m not sure when I came to this place of presence. I was always future minded. Too much so.I have a hard time thinking ahead now. It’s a huge blessing. I know that the World Race will be life changing, but today is my next greatest adventure. And I will treat everyday as such. Bask in it. When the time comes to embark on my missions, I know lightning will electrify my bones.
2. Culture
A stranger told me, after hearing my about my missions, “Please don’t try to change their beautiful culture”. I was floored. I hadn’t given that much thought. I did some researching about the stereotypes behind christian evangelism in third world countries and I found this quote which just about sums it up for me.
“Missionaries cannot avoid taking their own culture with them, but they can avoid imposing it on others.”
3. Safety
I was chatting moments ago with a Wine to Water employee (Wine to Water is a nonprofit dedicated to helping solve the water crisis. I work for Ransom as a barista, owned by Wine to Water. It’s such a joy being involved with their mission. Check out winetowater.org).
She spoke of a friend who joined the peace corps and experienced some sort of danger, perhaps an attack. Apparently not much was done in response.
I was thinking in this moment, what does safety mean to me?
And honestly, it means just about nothing. I love my life and I want a family. However, I believe this.
In the end, its not about me.
In the end, its not about me.
In the end, its not about me.
I decided to do The World Race because it is hard and a sacrifice, glorifying God in my pain. I did not do this because it was safe. I am not afraid to die for what I believe. That’s just the truth. What a grand life I would have lived!
In doing ~the race~, there is assumed risk. I live for that.
4. Thanks!
Last night I did a Adopt a Box Fundraiser and raised $700 in less than 24 hours. That means I’ve reached 11% of my fundraising goal.
I still need the larger sum boxes filled. If you’re receiving this email and wish to support me financially, adopting a box is a great place to start. Pick a box and donate that amount.
Venmo: erinmichelej
I was extremely blown away by the support of new friends, old friends, and complete strangers. I can’t do this without you.
Here is a list of my total (51) donors!
- Emalee Mistkawi
- Lacee Robins
- John Caldwell
- Noah Smith
- Ashton Hepburn
- Christian Hampton
- Emily Grace
- Anna Phan
- Lillie Lawrence
- Charlie Vaughn
- Dylan Baker
- Alice Booth
- Megan Money
- Mackenzie Mills
- Jessica Sandford
- Rachael Basham
- Carol Peezy
- Max Reconu
- Olivia Czerman
- Bella Contino
- Katie Roderick
- Ben Chappell
- Emma Vukovich
- Ethan Trull
- Sharlene Smith
- Seth Newbery
- Nina Valentine
- Nikki Bradshaw
- Laura Williams
- Megan Corey
- Jennifer Goodwin
- Kali Dewell
- Erin Pender
- Savannah Anderson
- Susanna Anderson
- Jenna Immink
- Macy Cobb
- Juliet Dereinzo
- Allie Wilson
- Caitlin Keegan
- Meroe Kokeny
- Camille Graham
- Annie Bolick
- Kursten Stang
- Jack Denny
- Kylee Davidson
- Morgan Flowers
- Austin Wiley
- Amanda Speer
- Lizzy Micyus
- Haley Fulp
