Sometimes (though not as often as some would like!), I find myself at a loss for words. This happened last Sunday. Words just cannot describe how thankful and blown away I am by the support and love that my church and community have given and shown me. My church put on a BBQ fundraiser for me on June 28, along with a silent auction. From the people who gathered donations for the baskets to the people who cooked food and put up tents at 7:30 in the morning to the worship band and DJ, it was so humbling to behold. Members of my church worked tirelessly to put this on. Community is a big component of the World Race and I’m thankful that my church has allowed me to see community in action for a long while.
But the community has also been behind me in this. From two twenties that were dropped in my lap from a local pizza company owner, dozens of donated items for the silent auction, a free ice cream cone after the business has already given us a gift certificate and a man who used his company to create t-shirts for the trip, I have been showered in love. Neighbors and friends (and even strangers!) have shown their support, kindness and love.
Rockin’ the red aprons, their smiles don’t show how intense barbecuing is!
So, though these two words are not close to being enough, thank you. To everyone who washed dishes, peeled eggs, hauled equipment, drove long distances, barbecued chicken, drove for necessary items, donated items, and/or came to the fundraiser, I give you my gratefulness and my thanks. I appreciate your support more than you know. And, as Kim L. said, know that you will be going with me as I go out.
Setting up the baskets before the start of the fundraiser.
Praise band!
