May I just say, preparing for training camp hasn’t been as bad as I thought it would. I have had my moments of sudden panic and stress, but as I look at my 32-lb backpack and my smaller daypack, I think that this won’t be so bad. All of the packing worked out pretty well and I think it’ll be fine. The physical requirements still unnerve me a little, but I’m encouraged that it isn’t just me completing this trek. I will have people around me, concerned about the same expectations and requirements before September comes. I have to remind myself that I’m not the only one going on this adventure.
As I was rolling my clothes into little bundles, my thoughts went back to when I was preparing for Kenya. I had all of my clothes laid out on the couch, matching my shirts with my pants, and then deciding what day I would wear it. I took at least 6 pairs of shoes and more than enough undergarments. I packed plenty of hair stuff and other bathroom necessities. I knew that wherever we were, I would have an indoor shower and a decent bed. The only thing we really worried about was using their water. I was also gone for 2 weeks, not 9 months. This coming September, I may have an indoor shower, I may not have one at all. I may have a mattress to sleep on, I may use my sleeping bag. All in all, with all of the changes, preparation, and worries that have been flying through my mind, I remember where I stand and who I rely on – my rock and my salvation, Jesus Christ. I have been fearful of what is to come, but I remind myself that this is what I’m called to do. This will prepare me for my purpose later in life, and this is simply a new growth. I will meet new people, forge new relationships, and rely on my God more than ever. In all of the chaos unrelated to the World Race, He has been a constant in my life.
Please continue to pray for myself and my team. We all want to succeed and enjoy training camp. Not to mention, fundraising! I am now over my half-way point! My next goal is to have $10,000 by the month of August. I currently have $8,570. Please pray that God continues to provide the funds for myself and also my teammates.
To all of my readers, thank you for taking the time to read this! I greatly appreciate it and I hope it gives you a picture of what I’m experiencing right now. I love y’all!
