It’s been 12 days since I arrived back to the States, and I have to say, re-entry isn’t as hard as I thought it would be. I’ve been spending a lot of time with my family and I’m really enjoying it! There are times, though, when I miss being on the Race. Times when I miss having a schedule laid out for me. Times when I miss living with my squad who became my family. Times when I miss being part of a community where we all understand one another. But now that I’m home, I find myself in a place where I’m just trying to figure out where I fit in. I know that this new season will strengthen the relationship I have with my family, but I can’t help but wonder what’s next? I’ve been praying, asking God to reveal what’s next for me and all I can hear is family. I have a slight idea to what I am going to do once I’ve nurtured those relationships within my family, but that doesn’t mean the waiting will be any easier. In the next couple of weeks I will be traveling to Colorado and Oregon and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to share my journey within a more intimate setting.
Our last month on the Race, we worked with Lightforce International in Albania. We spent the month doing odd jobs around the property to prepare the youth camp. We moved 25 trees, trimmed trees, worked in the garden, hauled trash, cleaned, painted rooms, built a playground, vaccinated pigs, and picked up sheep poop. It was a lot of work, however, once it was all done we were really proud of ourselves. We appreciated the time our contact, George, gave us to process the past 10 months of our lives. We had a lot on our minds, such as our plans after the Race and preparation for re-entry and what we’d experienced so far. Two of my squad mates were even baptized in Albania, which were some of my favorite and most beautiful moments on the Race.
During our processing time I cried and cried. I was grieving over leaving the people that I’ve come to love so much. This Race has been one of the hardest but most rewarding journeys of my life. I had the privilege to help and share hope to a lot of people. I was able to grasp the true meaning of “agape.” I was able to witness miracles and transformations. I was able to learn that there is a difference between forgiveness and healing. I’ve changed so much in my walk as a Christian and I’ve come to understand that agape love is the only way to draw people to Jesus. I’ve learned that we need to love people where they are and treat them with care and kindness. We all have things in our lives that we are not happy about. We all, at times, doubt that people actually care about us. I am here to say that I care. My heart’s desire is for people to experience the love of Christ. To experience unconditional love.
There are some people that may read my blog and think Oh, religion, I don’t want that. But I want to tell you that it’s not about religion but a relationship with Jesus. I don’t have all the answers and I never will. What I do have is a love for people that only comes through Jesus. Yes, my life has been hard and things happen, but I find my comfort in Jesus. I remember talking to an older man on my flight to Fort Myers and I was explaining to him why I have such a faith. He said, “Whatever keeps you going or makes you go to bed at night.” I sat there. He looked at me and expressed, “Don’t you stop being positive and sharing your heart. Keep up the good work because there are people who need hope.”
I am ready to see what’s next. Knowing me, there is no telling where I’ll live or what I’ll be doing. The Race maybe over but the mission isn’t.
Taken By Bailie Pedigo (my teammate) of Old Tree Photography
To all those that prayed and supported me: Thank you very much for making my dream come true! I love you all dearly.
