It has been a month since being back in America. Overall, it has just been straight up weird! I am living back at home with my mom in Austin, Texas. Soon to be back out on my own digging some roots here in Texas. I am processing things little by little, but daily. Which is all I can ask of myself at the moment, and that is okay. I am committed to sticking to the disciplines I created while on the race. One of them being, taking time to respond in a healthy and meaningful way. Thankfully, this quarantine has allowed me space and permission to do so. I have been mulling over these insightful questions since my flight leaving Azerbaijan and let me tell you, answering has not been easy. Reflecting has not been easy. The World Race seems like it didn’t even happen. It’s really quite bizarre. Some questions and answers provoked tears while others made me laugh out loud. Thank you all for being curious, thoughtful, and patient with me during this trying time. I am healthy, I have a job, a car, a place to live, and I am giving myself permission to move forward.
*these questions are in no particular order.
- If you could sum up what God has taught you on the mission field in a paragraph what would you say? A: Do not take people for granted. We are living in a reality that’s even comprehensible. We are destined for Heaven’s reality. And the folks who will join us are unknown, so love and love deeply. Be authentic and truer than true to yourself. If you don’t know who that is just yet it’s okay. There is time but don’t waste it. Read the Word! Find yourself a community that will remind you of who you really are and of the reality you are destined to reign in. Sonship is priceless and love is effortless when you’re connected to the source of love himself.
- Top 3 moments of the race for me personally? A: Top 3 moments… this is so hard to pick from. First and probably the greatest moment on the race happened month 1 in China. We got to witness to a family and ALL of them ended up accepting Jesus and experiencing the Holy Spirit. (check out the facebook testimony). Second, would probably be the day I saw the Taj Mahal. (peep the blog). It was also the day my best friend got married. The Father really used that day and that wonder of the world to speak life and a renewed love in my spirit. Third, would be our team hike in Kutaisi, Georgia where I put Honey Butter in my backpack. (also a recent blog).
- Do you think you will continue mission work after this? A: Absolutely! “Mission work” isn’t just overseas and it is a passion of mine. Passions don’t dwindle after an experience. The experience fans the flame.
- What is a moment you will look back on and realize you were right where you were meant to be? A: I have wrestled with this question. For the majority of my race I would continually ask the Lord why he had me in a place I didn’t feel as though I belonged and every time I was reminded of the encounter I had before launching in August. The Father asked me if this trip would be “worth it” to me if I only ever saw one single soul get saved and come to know Jesus as their Savior. It was a super intimate moment but it’s why I have 1/99 tattooed on my wrist, because I boldly responded with a “yes, it’s worth it”. After China, where we saw an entire family get saved, I reflected a lot on the marking on my wrist and wondered if I really meant it. But moments came where I woke up in the middle of the night to encourage a teammate because my spirit knew something was up. Many times I was able to share my testimony and see women resonate. Other times I got to pray for people and see them experience the Holy Spirit for the first time and crumble to their knees in tears. Those were the moments that I remembered why I was on the field but more importantly that the ONE is worth it.
- Most embarrassing moment? A: One of the best places I went while on the race was a place in Oman called Wadi Shab. I chickened out to cliff jump and sat at the top for a good 10 minutes while strangers gathered in the water chanting me on to “jump”. Yeah, I finally did it, but that was an embarrassing 10 minutes. Haha.
- Longest time you wore the same pair of underwear? A: Longest time without changing my chonies wasn’t by choice. Travel days are long and things tend not to run in a timely fashion overseas. That being said, I would say three days max. Infection and body odor should always be taken seriously on the race.
- Thing you missed most about America? A: Honestly, I missed basic privileges. I had been overseas before and on missions so it didn’t come by surprise when I missed the options and comfortability come month 6.
- What will you miss most about the race? A: Something I’ll miss most about the race is being in close contact with Laura Leigh Armstrong. If you ever hear this gal tell you a story you’ll see why. She is also an incredible friend. I miss you sister.
- Biggest take away? A: My biggest take away from the race is probably the power of authenticity. It is vastly undervalued but I implore you to discover your true identity in Jesus.
- How many days did you stay with a family verses a hostel/beach? A: Most of the time we didn’t have a host so when we did it was usually about a month. When we weren’t with a scheduled host we stayed any place we could find for however long we needed to.
- How many miracles did you experience and which ones did you not see coming? A: Defining a miracle is not my place to do. The God I believe in is vast and there’s no way I could put him in a box. I saw what I consider to be miracles everyday. One of the best ones was signing the cover of a Bible we got to gift to our Bengali friend outside the metro in India. That might sound insignificant but if you piece apart what I just said… you’ll see it.
- What was the biggest struggle in your role with the group and how did you overcome it? A: Having been asked to lead from the beginning of the race was something I really struggled with. The role itself came unexpected and a lot of the times it felt unfair. It was painful to say “yes” and accept the responsibility that came with that role. I took it too seriously. I let it consume several of my days and I wish I could have just been lead like everyone else on my squad. But, that was not was in store for me, God had better and bigger plans. I am still learning humility as well as learning how to steward my sphere of influence well. Being taken out of the leadership role was extremely beneficial, humbling and allowed me to see growth in myself and other areas that I still need to grow in.
- Longest time without shaving? A: Funny thing is, Bella the most girly-girl on the entire squad, had us as a team try to go all month without shaving. We lasted a little over 2 weeks. I felt so gross.
- How many smiles did you see? A: The amount of smiles I have seen globally are immeasurable. The beautiful take away from this question is knowing God actually knows the exact number. He knows each person and loves them unconditionally. So, give smiles freely, expect nothing in return, and don’t ever take someones smile for granted.
- How many different breeds of dogs did you see? A: Umm, countless
- Was the race what you expected and how was it different? A: Yes and no. As far as staying in cities and being on a more “bougie” route I expected that. I didn’t expect to struggle so much with the community aspect.
- Favorite/lease favorite place? A: Picking a favorite is easier when there is a category. Favorite place scenic wise was Oman and Nepal. Fave place mission wise was Ethiopia. Least favorite place: India.
- Favorite culture? A: Oman was such a place of comfort and hospitality. Their people and culture are like none other I have seen or experienced.
- What was the best and worst food? A: Some of the best food was probably Afghani Chicken we ate with our friends in India. Or the chicken and rice we had in Oman after we learned how to sail. Worst food… intestines.
- Where would you travel back to? A: I would go back to all the countries if I could. For sure Oman. Also, Nepal and Azerbaijan to hug our hosts.
- Which country played the best music? A: Hmm, this is a fun question. I liked Indian and Ethiopian music. Georgian music is also a vibe.
- Can you pronounce any new words? A: I can confidently say “hello” and “thank you” in the native languages of the 8 different countries we traveled to.
- How do you continue this work in our own country? A: Hmm. This is a great question to ask the Father. And I’d practice asking him daily. A more practical answer… PRAY! Don’t ever estimate the power of prayer and the spoken word. Being a child of God means you have the same power that raised Jesus from the dead living and breathing inside of you. You must walk in authority. Own your inheritance. Beckon others to Holy Spirit everyday, all the time. Be kind. Find JOY in the Lord because he is always good.
- What could an average person implement in their community from what you have learned? A: YOU SILLY HUMAN, WE ARE NOT AVERAGE. WE ARE FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE! When you wake up and realize what a gift you are to humanity and how much the King of Kings LOVES you… this question won’t even be a consideration. You just get to be loved kid. BE LOVED.
- Weirdest thing you ate? A: Camel. It was actually really tasty and tender.
- Did you experience God more than you usually do and if so why? A: Heck yeah I did. This was time dedicated away from myself to serve him. Unfortunately, that isn’t our normal day to day routine although it should be. The race helps you to develop personal disciplines that allow and create space for you to experience more of the Father in whatever capacity. There is no telling why I experienced him more other than pure laziness and lukewarm christianity.
- How are you going to bring that home? A: I want to be more active in my disciplines. I strive to eat well and work out during my normal day to day life. Why not show the same dedication year round to the Father.
- What is something you want to do differently when you get home? A: I want to have an alabaster heart. To begin each day with Jesus. Throughout the day talk to him. Finish each night with prayers of thankfulness and gratitude. To be able, trusting and confident to bring everything to him first and foremost. If I can’t share it with him first then who else could hear it, understand it, love and/or walk me through it? I want to continually fall at his feet for any and all reasons. Because he is good, he is faithful, he has the best in store for me, he will never fail me, he wants to listen, he loves to hear my perspective, and because he is worthy of all my praise and adoration.
- What was something you learned about yourself that you didn’t know or didn’t really think about during this time? A: Something I realized more and more while being on the race is how powerful being in love with Jesus is. When you’re in love, everything is better. Life is better. I knew I loved him before the race but during our time together he really showed me just what a romantic he really is. He loves to woo his bride. He wants my heart today and forever. I am always his first choice. I am never settling when I choose to be solely in love with him.
- How did you grow specifically with each aspect of the trinity? A: the Father is now the most romantic fella I’ve ever known. The Holy Spirit is my biggest companion and closest friend. We argue a lot but it’s nice because I know he listens. And Jesus, he’s still just as rad but my sole dependency on just him has decreased in order for me to grasp the rest of him. Praise God!
- Are there any new gifts the Holy Spirit revealed to you while on the race? A: I wouldn’t say new gifts but I have gotten to see so much fruit from stewarding well the gifts that have already been given.
- What we’re the most fun parts of the trip? A: The people, the food, the stories, the adventures, the pups, and of course my favorite girl, Kati Simpson. Period.
- What made you laugh the hardest? A: When all the parents came to visit us in Georgia. Laughing with my mom, Kati, and her family is something I’d pay money to do again. Another time was in Oman when we were staying at Uncle Hari’s and Bella made this trash video of our time at the beach. We were all so delirious from hours in the sun and we were all rolling in bed cramping from our laughter. We came out the next morning to Uncle Hari asking us “what was so funny last night? You laughed for 4 hours girls.” (Still waiting for that video remake Bella)
- Whats one thing you’ll never forget about the race? A: Kati Simpson. You’re a once in a life time friend. It’s because of the race our paths crossed and you my dear, are one thing I will never forget. (super soft, sorry)
- Was it worth it? A: For me the race was worth it simply because obedience to God is always worth it. Sometimes saying “yes” is scary and costs $20,000 but our “yes” is always worth it.
- What is a way God changed the way you see, think, will live from now on? A: I think I’m always transforming and being refined in my ways of thinking and how I view life. I know I was not destined for this earth. I am destined for heavenly places. Since the race my eyes and heart have expanded to see people how God sees them, to experience and commit to living from a spiritual realm not merely this natural one. This may sound crazy and unrealistic but when stepping into the fullness of who he says we are we can take dominion and wear our rightful crowns. We can take ownership of what doesn’t need to be here and claim victory in Jesus!
- Have you actually prepared for what’s going on in the world with COVID-19? A: I was absolutely not prepared for COVID-19. Who could ever be prepared for this type of a global crisis? As far as living with less and in uncertainty, sure you could say I was “prepared”. What I was not prepared for was that upon return America would require me to adhere to the standard of living I was in the last 8 months. It is a blessing to live in this country and I don’t take it for granted.
- What foods did you miss the most? A: Peanut Butter stuffed pretzels from Costco, Chik-fil-a, my mom’s cooking, and a good margarita.
- What will your first meal be when you return to America? A: Unfortunately, my first meal back was Dominos Pizza and a Corona beer because they don’t sell wine at gas stations in America, only cheap beer. I found the Coronas to be comedic relief though.
- What was your very favorite thing about the whole experience? A: My favorite thing about the entire race was being able to love on specific individuals all around the world. People of all different races, backgrounds, ages, skin color, and religions. They were the best part of the Race, and they will forever be cherished in my heart.
- Biggest way you saw God move in your life/heart? A: My life and heart are forever changed from this experience but I’ve learned a lot about why God has given me certain gifts and an abundance of compassion. I’ve learned to surrender even those to him. It’s looked like a simple shift in words but a big shift in my heart. “Father, show me how you would like me to serve your people. It’s not by my own strength, gifts, or talents, but yours alone. Let your love flow through me Holy Spirit and let that be the only love that gets noticed.”
- Biggest obstacle you overcame? A: Anyone who knows me knows I love animals. Dogs and turtles, are on the top of the list. In Oman we saw so many turtles, even mamas giving birth. The biggest obstacle I had to overcome was whether or not it was ethically okay if I touched them. I got the go ahead from a local sea turtle guide so I did get my fix of pets in but couldn’t help but feel guilty after.
- Biggest fear you had to overcome? A: Diwali festival in India. I have quite the reaction/fear to loud noises. I put in my ear plugs and made the best of that night in Agra where explosives were going off right in front of me, beside me, behind me, and all around me.
- Favorite dessert? A: Oof, I don’t have much of sweet tooth but I did enjoy baklava. Also our host is Nepal made us homemade chocolate chip cookies which were yummy! (Thanks Paul)
- Favorite wine? A: Saperavi from Georgia, it is extraordinarily delectable.
- Would you do it again? A: I probably would not do the World Race again.
- What was something you learned for the first time with the Lord? A: Because of the race I learned full dependency, expectancy, and trust in the lord with finances. I had never asked for $20k before and DIDN’T HE DO THAT FOR ME! Still baffles me, but he did that! Not once did I stress about deadlines or worry about being sent home because I didn’t get fully funded by the suggested time. I learned to trust without fear. I learned to ask with expectancy and I learned to fully depend on him. He’s such a good God!
- Do you think this season was more frustrating or fruitful? A: This is a really powerful question that sparks my faith more than anything. I can choose to believe that it was more frustrating and sit in that or I can choose to thank the Lord for the opportunity and have faith that there will be fruit from it even if I never see it. I choose the latter.
- How many time did you swear on the race? A: Well… I have done numerous burpees so honestly, I am unsure. Some cases were deserving, others were not. I’m working on it. (Thanks Hannah)
- Will you continue with certain disciplines you made on the race once you return? A: Wow, yes! This was probably my biggest challenge coming home during this time of crisis. With the world being put on hold and in quarantine has made for a very apathetic spirit to settle in. It has made it easy to skimp out on routine but the more grace I show myself in taking it one day at a time the more I come to terms that my life is still “the race” and this is simply just my next country. The mission never stops. Revival can start with me. Sabbath rest is essential. The Word gives LIFE. Time with the Father is never time wasted. His presence can change anything and everything. Disciplines should be practiced.
Thank you all again for your heaps of love, support, generosity, and kindness during the last 9 months. I can’t wait to introduce you guys to our new brothers and sisters in Christ when we’re all dancing in Heaven. Let’s keep making heaven crowded. AMEN, amen.
~written in love by your local gypsy
