I honestly had no idea what I was getting myself into when I arrived at training camp this past week. When my mom had asked me what I would be doing in Tennessee for a week I said "Oh you know, our teams will be assigned and I'll learn how to set up my tent." WRONG. We did do those things, but that does not even begin to describe my experience at training camp.
From losing my pack to eating foods I've never tasted, training camp has stretched me and taught me to be flexible and willing in any circumstance. I'm not going to lie, by day three I was dying for some ice cream and I thought to myself, "If I can't survive for 3 days without my cravings, how will I last 11 months?!" But this is why there is training camp, to prepare. There was a moment in the week where 45 of my squadmates and I were huddled underneath a tarp in pouring down rain at 2AM. One might think this would create grumpy people in such a miserable circumstance, however the Z Squad did the opposite. We decided to choose joy.
The week was one of the most challenging weeks of my life, in every aspect in which you could think. But the staff care for us racers in such a genuine manner that you can't help but feel truly loved. They did their best to prepare us spiritually, emotionally and physically for the World Race. One of the alumni said something that really hit home, he said "It's not called the Great Suggestion, it's called the Great Commission." And so, although I do not feel completely ready for this journey I know that I am equipped and called to live out Jesus' command.
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded of you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20.
