Caution: the content below may or may not be really cheesy.
So, I’ve never really been a “princess.” Yes, I loved dressing up as Belle and Ariel, but I haven’t ever been a fan of tiaras, glitter, and the pizazz that goes into Disney royalty. However, I now consider myself a true princess. Not because I’ve suddenly adopted pink as my favorite color, have my own private butler, or have a prince charming that whisks me away and finds my glass slipper. No—my true “princess” status comes from running 13.1 miles in Disney’s Princess half marathon. I may have dressed up like Ariel, but I was no mermaid; I used my legs and loved running with 3 great friends of mine throughout Disney world.
All of this got me thinking about the World Race in a new way. I love that it’s called a race because I can think of no better title- you need preparation, training, endurance, patience, support, and passion. It’s not easy, but there are many steps you can take to cross the finish line. Thinking about racing in July through 11 different countries scares me to death, but it also excites me beyond words. I am in preparation mode right now, and I just sent out my first wave of support emails and letters in the mail these past few days. I am training with God, asking that He prepares my heart, mind, and body for what lies ahead. But it’s daunting—also it requires work (something I’ve honestly been struggling with recently). It’s been hard for me to manage schoolwork, regular work, friends, finishing senior year, having fun, and preparing for the World Race. You want to live in the “here” and “now,” but preparation is vital. Let’s just say my legs wouldn’t be currently functioning if I hadn’t trained for those 13.1 miles— you can’t race without it.
Also, I really liked having “Princess Mallory” printed on my bib, getting a medal that says “Princess,” and dressing up in glitter (that got a little less sparkly once the sweat started to pour). I liked feeling special and royal. And then I realized- I am a daughter of the King. When Jesus died for me and later rose again, He freely gave me His inheritance so that I might be on His same level- royalty of heaven. I get to be a princess for life! It doesn’t take glitter, a glass slipper, or finishing 13.1 miles to make me (or anyone else) “special.” Nothing I have done, or could ever do, could make God see me as any more special.
For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. -Romans 4:14-16
I am still extremely excited for the World Race, although I am finding the fundraising process to be extremely humbling. It’s crazy to be at the mercy of others with little to no control over how the money is going to come in— it’s a complete dependence on God and faithfully believing that, if He wants me to go on this race, He will provide. It’s also scary (but very invigorating) to proclaim that over yourself- God has provided consistently in the past and WILL provide now and in the future. Overall, I’m excited to run this race ahead of me with passion, excitement, and support as a royal princess and co-heir with Jesus!
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