God is overwhelming.
My life has been filled with example after example of His overwhelming goodness and grace. And as of I have another example to add to the always-expanding list…
I AM FULLY FUNDED!
Somehow, God provided all of the funds required for the Race! Let's be honest, at the beginning, I didn't believe that was possible – I truly thought there was no way He was going to bring in over $16,000 for this mission trip. The concept of fundraising – and the amount – was my biggest argument to not go on the Race. If I hadn't have clearly known He was calling me to the Race, that aspect alone would have prevented me from going. As it was, I knew unequivocally He was calling, so I didn't have any real or desirable choice BUT TO fundraise and go.
Day 1 of the Race – launching from Atlanta
And He provided. Oh, how He provided. In fact, I didn't even have to worry very much about hitting the deadlines… He just provided for them before their time. (The only deadline I didn't hit exactly on time was the 4th and final one and it was by a few hundred dollars… and the money came in just 7 days late.)
And has it been worth it? Has the Race been worth all of this?
Was it worth getting over my pride and fear of fundraising?
Yes. Absolutely. I wouldn't have done it any other way – it has grown me and taught me humility, dependence on God and others, and about the generosity of people.
Has it been worth the time and anxiety?
Unequivocally, yes.
To all of you who have supported me, has it been worth your sacrifices, your gifts, and your prayers?
Well, only you can decide that. But I would say yes. As a treasurer managing my team's funds every month, I can say your money goes a long way and is used to really maximize how we can serve and bless these ministries. We've been able to see so many amazing miracles, grow in numerous ways, throw off hinderances and fears, and serve important and amazing people through incredible ministries. I truly believe we've impacted every place we've been for the better. It is worth it, in my eyes. I hope you agree.
To future Racers or missionaries: Stop being afraid of fundraising. Don't make that an excuse not to go and do something important to you, something that makes your soul excited, that you know God is calling you to. It is not as hard as you think, and the process of fundraising is way more rewarding than you think. I wouldn't trade my fundraising experience for the world. In many ways, it's made me realize how loved I am and how many people really care about me and about the world. Stop being anxious and just do it. This is your life – right now. Live it. Stop being driven by fear and live.
To my supporters: I want to tell you how grateful I am for you. I cannot express my gratitude for you in words. I am blessed to know you – blessed to be able to count generous people as my friends and family. I have felt so loved and supported by you this last year as I've shared about this opportunity with you. Many of you have overwhelmed me with HOW generous you've been, despite your own financial constraints. You bless, and bless, and give, and pour out… You exemplify our amazing Father in that. Thank you, thank you, thank you. God has chosen to provide through you. And I'm so grateful He did. None of this would have been possible without you.
Thank you. To the ends of the earth, thank you.
To my friends: Thank you for believing in me and God's dreams for my life. You've always encouraged me, pushed me, and challenged me. Few people have friends as great as you. (Many of my squadmates often remark on how exceptionally great my friends are to me.) I would not be here without you. I would not. Thank you for seeing so much in me and pushing me to what God has for me. There are only bigger dreams to come, and I'm excited to pursue them with your wise council, unconditional love, and unwavering faith aiding me.
To my family: I love you. That is first and most important. I love you always and forever, wherever you are and wherever I am. Our family – being spread across the whole U.S. – has taught me that distance is no measure of closeness and love. Thank you for teaching me that. Thank you, also, for teaching me to follow my heart and dream big. You have all inspired and shaped me in many more ways than you realize. My life has been absolutely incredible up to this point, and your support and example has allowed me to really live it. You will be with me, always and forever, wherever I go. I hold you in my heart. Thank you for supporting me through all of my crazy dreams and always being there to love me like crazy.
I can't believe there are only 4 months left of this Race… Time grows short and I'm so grateful for every day, every moment. I want to soak it all up.
Thank you again for all you have done for me. Thank you for your generosity. Thank you for your belief in me and what God is doing. Thank you for this season of my life.
I am overwhelmed.
