I literally have started this blog multiple times.  In my heart I know what I want to say but on paper it doesn't come out right.  I want to be real and honest (with you, with myself and with God).  I want to share my heart.  I want to plead for your prayer support.  But I don't know how, so I fall back to my nerdy writing ways–I'll make a list.  This list has no rhyme nor reason but are the thoughts that keep me up at night.

  1. I want to love, follow and serve God in a passionate way.
  2. I want shine with Christ's love like I did when I first believed.
  3. I don't.
  4. I don't recognize that girl anymore.  That causes an indescribable ache in my heart.
  5. I've tried to get back to that place.  I've called out to God, I've cried, I've fought and yet I still feel so far away, so disconnected.
  6. I know the World Race is God answering my prayers but I fear I won't be "Christian" enough, will fail epically and fall even further away, coming home with my head hung in shame.
  7. As I continue to prepare for the trip I have these stirrings of what truly following Christ feels like but they only last a moment. 
  8. I want that feeling all the time.
  9. I will miss family and friends desperately.
  10. But I wish I could leave now.  I'm ready to pursue Christ with complete abandon.
  11. Why do I need to leave the country to pursue Him recklessly?  Why am I incapable of pursuing Him like that now?

This still isn't ideal but it's better than the never ending paragraphs I had before.  I'm sorry for the melodrama/randomness of this blog.  The next one is going to be about Mozambique so that'll be way more fun I promise.  On a side note, I have been continually encouraged by people, there's just this disconnect between hearing and believing.  Thank you for all the love and support you've given through this journey already.  I am confident your support will keep me going strong while I am away!

On a side side note I lied a little bit, I did pick 11 items because it's 2011 and I needed a goal so there was a bit of reason to the list.