Auston Copeland

So…I typically don’t write a blog about people on the squad. Actually, I never do. However, I have been so impressed by one of the members of my squad that I felt compelled to do so.

Auston Copeland

I don’t really even know how to begin a blog like this, so I guess I will just be blunt. Auston is amazing, and such a great representation of what it means to be a Man of God. After Trevor had to go home due to Malaria, Auston volunteered to join our team for a month. He felt God leading him to be on our team to be with Tyler. So this month, Team Se7en has had the honor of having Auston with us.
Since training camp I have been friends with Auston. We have enjoyed some fun times, as well as some deep discussions. However, it is a much different dynamic seeing people on the squad during debriefs, and having them on your actual team.
He has been with us the last week, and there have been some things he has done that I want to share with you. They are not extraordinary things, but they just are great representations of what you begin to look like when you live like Christ.

1. After the robbery, most of my team had their bags stolen. I did not. So for the remainder of the race, I gave my pack to Jessica. Trevor gave me his giant duffle bag, and I have been lugging this thing around since July. Typically on a travel day, we have to carry several bags to a from cabs, trains, plains, buses etc. During our last travel day(s) I would be dragging my 30+ pound bag from each train. This bag was VERY heavy and was awkward to carry. Jessica would help me, as we would stumble trying to lug this thing. In Kiev we met up with Austons team, and he said good-bye to them, and joined us on our next train to Bucharest. As Jessica and I were lugging this bag, Auston said “let me help you.” Not only did he help me. He carried the bag- ALONG WITH HIS PACK. He didn’t carry it for a little bit either…He carried it ALL the way to the train.
2. Our first night in Oradea, Romania we were all using the wifi and relaxing after traveling for 3 days. Auston went into the kitchen. As we watched movies, he prepared burgers and home made fries for us to have for dinner.
3. Whenever we sit for a meal, Auston is always serving us. Whether it is getting us water, napkins, anything!
4. Relates- Auston has done an amazing job relating to the members of our team. He takes the time to talk to us each individually about things we are thinking about. He listens and loves our team as a whole.

There are so many more amazing things that I could write about, but this blog would go on forever. Auston has really taught me that its not about Grande gestures, but about the little things. He represents the love of Christ in all the little things that he does…and I am honored to call him my friend.