On the Race we have a month called manistry. Since there are usually so few guys on a squad (usually 2 or 3 on a team), it’s an opportunity for the all men on squads to get together for a month and have “bro time”. There is so much more to it than that though.
It gives the women on a squad the opportunity to learn true sisterhood and what it looks like for women to dwell together in unity and truth.
Societal expectations for groups of women are that of gossip and drama. For there to be bickering and passive aggressive comments.
That’s not our case.
We choose to overcome expectations/norms and look to Christ for what it means to love and call each other higher. Consciously choosing not to gossip and to deal with conflict (drama) with integrity, wisdom, and love. To walk in the beauty of who we are. To be raw and vulnerable. To give grace to one another and ourselves.
Some days that means crying alone or with a friend. Giving ourselves the permission to open up about struggles we have never wanted to share before. Releasing our defenses and hanging loose. Laughing so far we choke (don’t worry we are all fine). Dancing on the roof until curfew. Coffee dates and thrift shopping. Movie themed charades. Listening prayer and worship. Ice cream. And more ice cream. Prayer. Photo shoots in the early morning. Lots of banana bread. Making a biker video (https://youtu.be/R72EbbswTas). One-on-ones and team times.
We support each other’s passions and seek to pull forth the gold we see. Calling out blind spots because we want everyone to walk in their utmost self.
I was sitting in a cafe this morning journaling when two of the girls walked in. I wasn’t asking for it, but as I looked at them I was overwhelmed with the love I felt for them. Love I know only comes from the Father. Love I can’t explain.
This month I have seen so much growth. In myself and in my friends. This is why I am here. This is why I chose to give five month to leading a group of people I didn’t know prior to leaving.
I believe in them. I believe with them. I will believe for them when they don’t believe for themselves.
Month 4 of this journey is about to come to a close. I still have $1,149 to raise before I hit my final goal. Any help is so appreciated!
Photo cred: Tessie West
