Let me first dispel the myth that all introverts are shy or socially inept, or that they are not “people” people. It is simply not true, certainly not for every one.
But I do think it’s fair to say that interacting with others takes a lot out of introverts. It requires mental preparation and planning beforehand, rest and reflection afterward. At least that is the case for me.
Enter fundraising.
My personal experience speaks from developing ministry partners, but I imagine managing fundraisers is a similar social endeavor. Both involve taking initiative and putting yourself out there, talking to people in groups big and small.
To date, one of the most humbling processes of sanctification to which God has called me.
I hate talking about myself or being the center of attention. Support-raising volunteered me to do both.
I spent more time preparing for my first coffee date than the duration of my next three support appointments combined. It took all of my being to step up in front of my home church a few weeks ago. Even now, a week before Launch, I catch myself trying to come up with shortest possible answer to “what are you up to next?” in order to avoid a lengthy conversation.
Sharing my hopes and dreams, asking for questions to which I have no answers, welcoming strangers to speak into my life, all of it has been a tremendous exercise in faith.
But if God has taught me anything, it is that vulnerability begets vulnerability.
He asked me to wear my heart on my sleeve, and then, I saw the floodgates opened.
Friends from years past messaged me with their testimonies. My kids gave me hugs, and their most heartfelt travel advice. Students donated out of their savings. The stewardess on our flight home after training camp opened up to Courtney and me. Near-strangers came over to shake my hand and said they were proud of me. My community, so often reserved and indifferent, rallied and advocated for my cause at every turn.
It was completely overwhelming, and sometimes even uncomfortable.
My story opened the door to many others, allowing our paths to intersect and intertwine. It blessed me with the opportunity to hear about what God is doing in others’ lives, and more reasons and ways to praise and worship Him.
It gave God the glory, and that is really what matters most.
To my dearest supporters, anonymous and named, please do not take any of this to mean that engaging with you over the last nine months has been a burden to me. Developing my relationships with each and every one of you has been one of the most significant sources of encouragement and truth in my life.
Your concern about my food and shelter, health and safety, about every detail of my well-being for the next eleven months has reminded me that God’s care over my life is meticulous and all-encompassing. Your excitement for me has reminded me that my life has an impact on people, no matter where I go, and that true joy is contagious. Your constant prayers have reminded me that we have a Heavenly Father who hears our cries and answers in His infinite power and wisdom. Your unfathomable generosity has reminded me that a mustardseed of faith, on my part and yours, can move mountains. Your endless love and support have given me fuel for the journey; it has filled my heart and overflows to the world.
You are the miracle that I prayed for. Without you, I simply would not be where I am today.
Thank you.
