I’m in my last week of ministry here in Malaysia, crazy right, headed to month 5 and I feel more blessed than ever. Even though I couldn’t spend it with my family I got to share this Thanksgiving with 18 beautiful and amazing women. It may not have been a typical one filled with family and turkey but it was filled with games, lots of laughter and some awesome tacos.
Again, even though I’m not with my family this year and it was not as expected there is still so much to be thankful for this holiday season!
My friends and family. It’s true I am not with them but they have been the most encouraging, supportive and loving people ever and I wouldn’t be here without them. This trip has allowed me to see how many special people there are in my life that are so willing to help and be there for me in an instance. They are as much a part of this journey as I am and I can’t imagine having it any other way. They have just been such a beautiful gift from God, each with unique and amazing perspectives and I wouldn’t trade them for the world.
The World Race. This has definitely been one of the hardest experiences but it has also been one of the most rewarding. Yes I have experienced and seen heartache, loss and frustration but I have also seen growth, love, selflessness, beauty and amazing joy. I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to be here and meet such wonderful people and hear such beautiful stories. I feel like I am constantly learning new things here and growing in my relationship with the Lord. I am constantly amazed at the resilience and giving hearts of those around me. Getting to learn these lessons and know these beautiful hearts is something I could never have imagined I’d be lucky enough to do. Another beautiful gift from the Lord.
My squad mates. They are hidden gems let me tell you! I have gotten to know some of the nicest, most sincere, unique and funniest people you will ever get to meet. I am inspired each day by watching their walk with the Lord, generosity and “yes” attitudes. They are full of knowledge and amazing talents, each and every one of them, and you can trust that they are genuine in all that they do. It’s crazy that just 6 months ago we were basically all strangers and now these are some of my best friends.
Moments. I am so thankful for special moments I’ve experienced on the field this year. Playing soccer with kids, sitting on the street listening to a story, a tearful embrace from a mom as she remembers a loss, worshipping in the rain or even just a smile from Alan as he walks into the homeless shelter. It’s all of the little, but powerful, moments that I am so grateful for and that I carry with me each day.
My relationship with the Lord. I have always had a good relationship with God but over the last year it has grown exponentially and it is something I will be ever grateful for. God has taught me so many lessons, changed my heart and given me so many beautiful opportunities to see and spread His love. God has given me a life that I would never have dreamed of for myself. A life more exquisite and fruitful than anything I could have ever picked and for that I will forever praise Him.
So this year I am extremely thankful! It has been filled with new experiences, wonderful people and more joy than I can even express. I can’t wait to reunite with my squad, meet some more awesome people and finish out this year in Bangkok, Thailand!
I am so thank to those in my life and I am increasingly thankful for you each day. I hope everyone had a truly blessed Thanksgiving!
