Six months ago I met my first team and for the last four months we’ve had the chance to do ministry, live life, and grow closer to the Lord together. Team Kindle consists of myself and four of my favorite human beings, Brieanne, Jamie, Jeff, and Daniel.
In less than a week, our time as a team will come to a close. Getting to know, love, and be loved by this team has been so special. During our time together, we’ve learnt some things about each other. Big things, little things, fun things, and weird things. Things you don’t really know about people until you live in close proximity with them.
So, this blog is for the members of X-squad who will have the honor of living the next few months of our Race with my people. Here’s what you need to know about them. There’s a lot more to learn, but here are a few life hacks to living and loving with Team Kindle:
Dear Brieanne’s next team,
First of all, Brieanne hates being called “Bri.” She much prefers “Bran” as her nickname. A few fun facts to make your months with Bran as amazing as possible. You can borrow her clothes anytime you want. You don’t even have to ask. But if you do, you’re definitely not allowed to comment on how difficult it is for her to pack all her clothes into her pack before travel day. They’re basically community clothes after all. If you find any bodies of water during your time together, take her swimming. She’s basically a dolphin. Let her sleep in whenever possible. Remind her to drink water, otherwise she may or may not consume any. She doesn’t really like physical touch, but loves a good back scratch or “scrickle” as she calls them. If you really want to show her you love her, bring her a little present whenever you can. Doughnuts are her favorite. You’re gonna love living life with Bran.
Dear Jamie’s next team,
This girl is a hoot and a half and ridiculously wise. Jamie has a lot of wild dreams at night. Make sure to ask her about them if you get a chance. Specifically ask her about the evangelizing monkey dream. Jamie hates spiders with a capital “h.” If you see one, don’t tell her. Just assume she wants it dead and neutralize the situation. She hates vegetables, so try to cook them separate whenever possible. She loves chips, so those are always a win. Ask her about her boyfriend Joe when you think about it. They’re adorable and don’t we all love to talk about the people we love? Our girl Jamie is a big physical touch fan. Give her a hug, sit close to her when possible, and don’t be surprised if she play hits you every once in a while.
Dear Jeff’s next team,
We love Jeff and you will too. Jeff’s awe and wonder for the Lord is inspiring. He sees the way the Lord is moving in everything. He also loves and knows the Bible like nobody’s business. Don’t be surprised if you hear him casually say something like “I’m gonna go read Philippians real quick.” With that, know that Jeff disappears a lot. It’s okay. He wanders a lot, but he always comes back. We’ve come to love the phrases “Where’s Jeff?” and “Jeff’s doin’ his own Race.” Jeff is also one of the most generous people on planet earth, so be prepared for that. There are few things on earth that Jeff appreciates as much as a good cup of coffee, so try to find him some when possible. If you need dinner ideas, he loves chicken stir fry. Also, you didn’t hear it from me, but Jeff makes amazing omelettes.
Dear Daniel’s next team,
Last but not least, good ole Daniel. This fella will love and serve you like nobody else. If we’re talking enneagram, Daniel would be a nine wing two if that were possible. He loves Brooklyn 99, the Office, and (my personal favorite) New Girl. All references are welcomed and encouraged. Daniel hates being peer pressured, so if you’re ever trying to get him to do something, that’s not the route you wanna go. However, he does love bets and “What’re the Odds?”. He loves practicing his Australian accent, so give him space to do that when you can. Encourage him to practice his guitar. He’s getting really good at it! Also, he’s very serious about his dental hygiene and probably yours too. He loves words of affirmation. If you say something really nice and he tears up a little bit, it’s okay. You didn’t break him, it just really means a lot to him.
I’m sure during your time together, you’ll learn even more about Brieanne, Jamie, Jeff, and Daniel. Without a doubt, in a few short months, you’ll have your own list of things you love and adore about them. But hopefully this gives you a good place to start your time together.
They say there’s something special about your first team and they’re right. Take good care of them while you’re together. They deserve it.
