If you haven’t had a chance yet, please read my post entitled “Why I Go.” This will give you a deeper understanding of how I got into this whole thing before I explain why my World Race journey is worthy of investing in.
I think this question is the most difficult but most crucial to answer. From a business-minded standpoint, yes it is about raising money and why you should support me. But it’s also a deeper, more personal question that revolves around my worthiness in receiving this opportunity and God’s involvement in it.
To an outsider, this seems as another “study abroad” opportunity…only with more places and more money. To somebody who knows me, this is not what I hope you would see and believe.
Society says that my generation is too focused on our ambitions (that are probably unrealistic most of the time)….that our dreams are too big. That we expect amazing things in our lives to all of a sudden happen without any hardship along the way. The truth is…society is probably right. But, here’s the deal. It’s that passion and ambition to “change the world” that drives us. At the end of the day, that is something that nobody can take away. And, I don’t think you would want to.
Everybody’s calling for The World Race is different. I think mine can be split up into a spiritual journey and a business concept.
Spiritually speaking, I do want to change the world. I’ve spent my life thus far pouring into my studies and work. In fact, I made my first B this past semester thanks to Dr. Samie’s marketing management class….but I digress. I long for an opportunity to serve as Jesus served….living among the poor, the hurt, the broken. To see the world as God sees it and have a deeper understanding of His love for the “least of these.” God uses each of us in different ways as our passions develop, not only for our careers but for other people as well. The bottom line for me is that this is a God given passion.
I have been to Mexico 3 times and Guatemala once (each for a mission a trip). Those are some of the best weeks of my life. I wish I could say that I knew more Spanish, but I don’t. However, I can say that I have certainly developed a love for Hispanic, developing nations, which is why I jumped at the chance to join the first ever “all Spanish speaking” route offered by The World Race. Unlike most routes that trek across the world, this one focuses on a specific location that coincides with my heart.
From a business standpoint, most you know that I am pursuing a career as an executive pastor or in non-profit management. What better way to build a foundation and understanding in non-profit management and ministry than to be a part of it in 11+ different ways in 11 different countries for 11 months.
Team-building is a growing necessity in the workforce. Look at Google. Every world racer I’ve ever talked to says the best and worst part of The World Race is the community (living with the same few people for 11 months). As you learn to work with different personalities and find ways to build each other up and make each other successful, you learn organizational behavior and management firsthand. This is a critical skill that can be directly applied to any career, no matter the industry.
Non-profits and churches are all about focusing on people. It is called not-for-profit or 501c3 for a reason. Money has to be raised and provided by you, the people. When its all said and done, through this trip, I will be able to build credibility in my ability to fundraise and lead a non-profit. This is where I especially could use your help.
All in all, this is a chance to spread the gospel, one person, one house, one location at a time. Many of you have already made quite an investment in me throughout my life. I have been blessed with so many mentors throughout the years. I am asking you to continue to invest in me….because I promise that it will matter. I cannot promise any financial return, but what I can promise is a chance for us to be a part of The Great Commission and to help grow God’s Kingdom (or at least plant some seeds).
