What have I learned from each continent, and in general on the World Race?
South America: That I needed to make some big personality changes and changes in how I live and interact. (I did change a lot.) I learned that pursuing the ideal Christian relationship is possible, and I grew in faith that it was for me through learning the stories of couples I admire and love. I learned that I can do hard things that I HATE, willpower is strong in both directions. I met people who were strong, kind, and living for the Lord. Christianity in South America looked pretty similar to the Christianity I had in America. Also, I learned how to work harder than I ever have in my life.
Asia: I learned more about poverty and sex trafficking; my passion to make a difference in the lives of others grew stronger. I lived life with people who had never lived a lifestyle like mine, and I got to understand the norm of people who are really struggling to make it. My heart broke for the children who have been through more at 8 or 9 years old than I had in 25 years. I ached to learn about their big dreams that may never come true because of the lack of money, education, and opportunity. I grew stronger in my firm decision to adopt children one day. I learned that spiritual warfare is very, very real and the oppression it causes keeps people blinded. I learned that I can write a sermon, and lead bible studies. I learned how to befriend someone who didn’t speak English (or Spanish).
Europe: I grew in awareness of my own choices for comfort/zoning out, which block my ability to hear and be used by God. I remembered that what keeps me back from my greatest self and achievements is my own laziness. I learned more about the culture that America was modeled after. I learned a lot about communism and how it affected citizens during those regimes. I was reminded of God’s promises, that He will give me a miracle to show me His love and purposes, and I grew in my faith about what God will do with my “yes” to Him.
Africa: So far, I’m learning that I need a lot less than I thought I needed. My perspective is powerful, I can choose joy or complaint. Courage or fear. Love or judgement. I’m learning even more about hospitality, through the kindness of the locals. I want to be the kind of person that can always be interrupted. My schedule is not as important as what God wants to do with the situations He brings me to. I recognize that this year I’ve grown in gracefulness (and need to continue) but that I do not need my way anymore. I’m content when I don’t get my way, and I choose positivity. I’m more aware of ways in which I’ve been prideful, and am quicker to admit fault, or even call myself out and apologize. I’m finally not so defensive. Admitting you have an area that needs improvement or awareness and making that change is way more enjoyable than nursing a bruised ego. It’s all in your perspective.
On top of all of these things, I’ve learned in immeasurable ways:
What it means to respect others (in general) and in their different cultures
How to honor others more in the way I live and react
How to anticipate the needs of others and notice what’s not obvious
How to peacefully and lovingly communicate offenses or disagreements
How to be flexible when plans change
How to be a good friend even to someone you’ve never met
How to share the gospel of peace and love through actions
How to be culturally sensitive
How to have patience and endurance when you’re not in control
& How to live like a local in these countries by knowing the need-to-know places, the social norms, the popular beverages and food, the public transportation, and enough of the language to get by.
