Am I crazy? Absolutely.

In May, I will graduate from college, where I have felt loved and sheltered and protected. I know everyone who graduates asks themselves the same question: Where to now? On December 20th, that was answered for me. At least temporarily. 

In September, I will make an attempt to fit as much as humanly possible into a camping backpack so that I can trek around the globe with a handful of other people who are (roughly) my age. I haven't met them yet, but I can sense that like me, they are thirsty and eager to feel God's presence and serve humanity, carrying the knowledge that while we know little else, we know our Creator loves all of the people in the world. I will travel to 11 countries in 11 months. I will minister to all types of peoples in all types of situations. 

On top of that, in order to take this trip, I have to raise $15,500. Which is a year or two of college. A new car. My salary for a year (I work part time, obviously). A vacation for a huge family. 

My parents, who are the most supportive people I know, are not entirely thrilled about this decision. They did, however, help me make the initial deposit to secure my place on the team. While I was deliberating about whether or not this is what God is calling me to, they prayed for me and told me that regardless of their feelings, I was an adult and I could make my own decisions. For that I am thankful.

Specifically for those of you who do not know, The World Race is a missions organization that sends people to 11 countries in 11 months. I chose this organization because there is a distinct emphasis on both caring for orphans (which is a passion God has grown in me since age 15) AND human trafficking. I found that combination irresistable. There is also an emphasis on relying on God to provide for us. (I giggled a little when I typed this. You may have giggled as well. Obviously the Lord will HAVE to provide — I have 15 grand to raise and my job pays $7.50 an hour. There is no way I can do it on my own.) Aside from fundraising, there is another element of provision — we won't stay in fancy places or tote around clean clothes or any of that, we will sleep in tents, we shower less regularly than the average person, I'd imagine. Then again, living in Asheville, I think I'll be able to adapt just fine. Relying on the Lord will not come easy for me. I am an American. I watched my parents work hard to provide for my family. They reminded me, frequently, that all of the things we possess are gifts from God. Gifs that can be given away if need be. God is calling me out of my materialism and into a mindset of giving. Giving myself for others. 

Now, though I know I have no right, I am asking for your help. Primarily, I am going to need prayer. GOBS of it. I am going to need support, not just monetarily, but people who are excited about this because they know it's what God has intended for me. I am definitely going to need money. If you have it to give and you'd like to support what I'm doing, you can click the link below my picture that says "Support Me Here!" I am asking you to share this with your friends. Share it with anyone and everyone you can. Thank you so incredibly much. 

The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.