As we wrapped up our Month 6 Debrief at the end of June, I thought I would write a blog post telling people back home and new Racers what debrief is all about.
Debrief is a time when the entire squad (all of the teams) take over one hostel for a few days of R&R mixed with evening all-squad sessions that are lead by Squad Leaders, Mentor and Coaches, all-squad worship time, and a team meeting with the mentor and coaches to see how everyone is doing on the team.
Debrief is when you get up and sing iPod karaoke when you have an insecurity about singing in front of people.
Debrief is when you stay up until 3 a.m. having Holy Spirit-lead conversations until you realize that it’s 3 a.m. and you really have to pee.
Debrief is when you can sleep in (almost) as late as you want after staying up until 3 a.m. chatting.
Debrief is when you can explore the city, and know that if you missed something, there’s always tomorrow to go back and wander again.
The Magic Water Circuit, Parque de la Reserva, Lima, Peru
Debrief is divine conversations with people you run into wherever you happen to be. Sometimes that means that you will find a connection with someone that works at the hostel you’re staying at. That connection leads into hearing their story and being an example of Christ to them. Other times it means having awkwardly exciting conversations with other boarders at the hostel about Jesus. It might mean running into missionaries at the grocery store and finding out that they would be great for Unsung Heroes.
Debrief is when you have tough conversations with teammates that you didn’t know how to have during the month.
Debrief is when you are reunited with old teammates, friends on other teams, and build new bonds with squadmates with whom you haven’t had a chance.
Debrief is when you have a better chance of flexibility to Skype with family and friends back home, when internet allows.
Debrief is rest. If you want to stay in your bed all day and only come to night worship session, that’s cool! If you really need to get out and explore the city, go for it! If you need to schedule one-on-ones with squad leaders, coaches, or other squadmates, perfect.
Debrief is playing “Deep Deck” with more than just your teammates.
Panama City, Panama at night
Debrief is, well, two words: Free Pile.
Debrief is what you need it to be. It’s nothing to be scared of or intimated by.
I remember going into my first debrief with trepidation and uncertainty. What do you mean there is nothing planned? ‘J’s — you will learn to appreciate this part of debrief. You will make your own plans! There are 3 things you need to know about debrief: 1) Where do I get food? 2) Where do I sleep? 3) Where is it safe to go?
Once you know those things, do what you do.
Future Racers: Don’t take debrief for granted, but don’t feel guilty about what you decide to do. There are only so many chances you get to be in a wonderful new city with your whole squad, take advantage of that time. Also, remember to take a breather — rest. Have your quiet time with Jesus. Do what you need to in order to launch yourself into the next month well.
