Almost two weeks ago I returned home from a long yet amazing week. Training Camp. Our training camp for the World Race was in Gainesville, Georgia which is northeast of Atlanta. So much happened that week that I could not possibly share it all in this little blog so call me or something if you would like the nitty gritty details. I would love to share!
If you are preparing for training camp or are just interested in capturing a glimpse of my week this is something you will want to read. I hope.
Prep Tip 1.
If you like schedules and plans, like I do, just dump those out the window. You will not get a schedule.
I had already prepared myself for the lack of schedules and whatnot while on the race because in third world countries schedules are just suggestions. The first two days I was on the struggle bus without a schedule. However, you learn to go with the flow and it does prepare you for the race in some ways.
Prep Tip 2.
If you like hot showers coming out of a rain shower head then forget about that. You will get a five gallon bucket to fill up with a water hose (cold water just in case you were wondering) and a cup to pour it over you. You may detest the idea at first but those baby wipes that are like precious gold only go so far. By day two or three you will suffer through the cold water just to be clean and you will never have felt so refreshed in all your life. It really was amazing.
Prep Tip 3.
If you do not like to step outside your comfort zone then do your best. For example, porter potties do not exist on the side of the road in foreign countries like the Ukraine so if you get stranded before you can get to your ministry site then the woods or a bush is your only option. Besides, after a few days the woods smell better than those porter potties.
Prep Tip 4.
If you do not like to be around people that much well then pray to God for strength. You will not be alone. All week. Except when you are using the potty or taking a bucket shower. Even then you are not really alone because someone will most likely be standing outside the stall talking to you. You might also have the luxury of spending the night on a bus with your entire squad of 41 people because “the African border was closed.”
Prep Tip 5.
If you do not work on a regular basis please start now. Not only will you be preparing mentally and spiritually for the race during this week but physically as well.
Prep Tip 6.
If you are ready to face challenges in all aspects of life and face things you have not faced before then training camp is for you! You will see God work in mysterious and amazing ways and you will work to build unity within teams in sometimes the most bizarre ways. And be ready to be challenged to a dance off, leave your dignity at the door, and dance like nobody’s business!
Prep Tip 7.
Come with an open mind and leave your expectations behind. “Nuff said.”
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An update: We finally have our launch date! I leave September 6 for Atlanta, GA for final meeting and such then leave for Haiti on September 7.
