What seemed to be a distant hope has become a reality. I’m home. Well, I have been home for a week and a half now. I’m writing from a comfortable seat on my favorite couch in my air-conditioned house. I’ve enjoyed a burrito from Moe’s, a good southern biscuit from Bojangles’, waffle fries from Chic-Fil-A and my mom’s fried okra and sweet tea. I’ve slept on my own bed with a new fluffy pillow. I’ve taken a warm shower (working my way up to hot, it’s still unfamiliar territory!) and been able to go to the sink where the toothbrush and toothpaste are already there waiting for me. I have found a whole new wardrobe hiding in my room and it’s almost as magical as Narnia. I’ve been reminded that sometimes the internet does work fast and phone signals don’t always drop.
My first week back was full of sweet comforts and new appreciation for life here in America. I went to restaurants where they actually had everything on the menu and I didn’t have to second-guess the water or ice cubes I was served. I also had the urge to take the leftover napkins as back-up toilet paper, but that’s another story. While there may be a few quirky things to adjust to, overall it was a pretty smooth transition. It goes without saying that I love my family and seeing them again was more wonderful than I could’ve imagined.
I want you to know that I am thankful for the year that I was given; the hectic travel days, the awkward customs, the amazing food, the beautiful people, the glory of God revealed on this earth. It was quite a year and one I will certainly carry with me for the rest of my life, but where do I go from here? The adventure’s happened, the Race is over and I’m back home in little ol’ Stony Point, North Carolina. I’m living with my parents and my mom bought me an ice cream cone last week. (Don’t judge, I’m just stating a fact. I was thankful and it was tasty.)
Anyway, before the Race I thrived on preparation and was continually looking forward to what was to come. I put a lot of effort mixed with faith into this trip. Raising support, buying gear, meeting teammates and praying for endurance; it was all new and exciting. Now that I’m back I’ve already been to see a few friends. They’ve allowed me to share some stories and pictures and even answer a few of those tough questions I was so scared of. I was quick to ask them to keep me accountable – if I get carried away and always bring up the Race, please punch me. I don’t want to be one of those people that lives in the past or constantly brings up their experiences. When a lady at the checkout counter comments on the humidity I don’t want to retort: “Yea, well that’s nothin’. You should experience Malaysia’s hot season.” Or, for example, I was with a group of friends playing a board game tonight. There was a house-fly that was buzzing around our heads for a bit. I didn’t even notice until someone gave an exasperated sigh: “Ugh, can we kill that thing? It’s so annoying!” A grin spread across my face as I thought, “Every time we ate a meal in Cambodia there were at least 20 uninvited dinner guests!”
You probably wonder where I’m going with this. The World Race was a wonderful experience and I learned lots along the journey. I’ve already Skyped or had a phone conversation with six of my teammates. I love those people so much and know that they will be a big part of my future. The lessons I learned and people I met along the way will always be special. The World Race was an unforgettable adventure, but it is not the only adventure of my life.
The constant that was present before the Race, during and now afterward is Christ. He’s my Rock and the One I cling to. He is the One that I want to keep talking about years down the road. He is the Adventure that is never-ending. There’s no looking on to the “next big thing” with Jesus. He is the ONLY thing. I feel like I’ve said this over and over, so if you’ve read my blogs you’ve noticed. I don’t apologize for the repetition as it’s pointing to something (Someone, really) that will continue throughout my life and long after I’m gone.
The Lord brought me to the Race, he brought me through it and he will continue to guide even now. His Spirit lives in me because His Son died for me to reconnect me with Himself. It’s a beautiful story that I’m blessed to be a part of. So to wrap things up, I’ll say this: The World Race was a spectacular adventure in many ways, yet it is an adventure that pales in comparison with that of knowing Jesus Christ. After all, “This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent" (John 17:3). He is my purpose, my strength and my life. He will never disappoint or grow boring, as there is infinitely more of Him to discover than I can ever hope to find out. And I’m willing to give a lifetime to search.
