Hello everyone! I am so happy to announce that I survived Training Camp!
I am writing to you from Illinois after an incredible week with my fellow World Racers in Toccoa Falls, GA. Training Camp (TC) included daily workouts and personal time with God, team building, simulations of challenges we may face and learning of cultural norms in the places we’ll be. It undoubtedly stretched me and gave me greater insight into what this next year is all about.
There are more blogs coming about this week, but below are the top 11 things I learned at TC to give you some insight. Enjoy:)
1. I Have No Rights.
My time, body, personal space, possessions, and skills belong to God, not me. During TC I struggled as I could not invoke my “right” to personal time, a full night’s sleep, or even shower when I wanted. I felt exposed and completely out of control. In the end, abandoning “my rights” made me more aware of the needs of those around me, forced me to communicate my own needs, and required patience.
2. I am Excited to Live in Community.
Most of my growth this year will come from living in community. I got to meet my squad (W) and team and I am so grateful for them! I was shown that I bring a lot to our community including joy, a listening ear, wisdom from experience, and a sense of humor. I also know that community this year will challenge the judgmental, selfish, insecure, and pessimistic parts of myself. Living in community will be difficult, but I am excited for how we will strengthen each other.
3. Freedom is a Choice.
Just about every pattern of thinking, desire, and behavior (depression, self-pity, & feelings of unworthiness to name a few) that I have confronted this past year afflicted me to some degree during TC. I was overwhelmed and frustrated, but God showed me Galatians 5:1 reminding me that I am healed and am no longer controlled by these things. I am free, but I stay free by choosing God’s truth over lies, circumstances, or feelings. I have to fight, but I'm not alone! This gave me confidence as I saw how much I learned and grew over the past year.
4. I Love Adventures in Missions (AIM).
AIM is a spirit-led and intentional organization. The staff truly loves us and are there to call out the greatness in us. One of our squad leaders (alumni racer) shared the hope that “their ceiling will be our floor.” AIM is more than just an organization that sends out missionaries, they are in the business of discipleship (helping us to actively follow in the footsteps of Jesus). In the words of Ruth, one of our squad coaches, “Remember dear racers, as you begin to go and impact the nations, God wants to use the nations to impact you.” Amen!
5. Counting Costs
There are real costs to participating in the World Race. It is hard knowing that I gave up a wonderful community in Seattle, sold most of my belongings including my car, my bank account is almost depleted and there is no money coming in, I’m missing special occasions and constant access to friends and family, and no full time work experience at the age of 25. It doesn't help me to deny this reality and I must deal with the sacrifices now. However, after this week, I know that the outcome will far outweigh the costs!
6. God is Wild.
God shocked me when I was invited to serve as a team leader. I was also surprised at the issues that came up this week including unresolved grief, hidden expectations, and fears. God is unpredictable, knows me better than I know myself, and my human understanding is truly limited.
7. Jesus Really Loves Me.
Like many of us, my life hasn’t been easy and there are times when I’ve felt abandoned by God. During TC He showed me that He’s always been there. He protects, provides, and heals me for one simple reason: He loves me, just because. For the first time I had no hesitation believing this truth, and guess what? It’s true for you too! Don’t believe me? Ask God to show you.
8. We Are Storytellers.
I struggle with understanding the power of my own story, but TC showed me that I am living a story that is worthy of being told. My story is full of sacrifice, pain, healing, reconciliation, and perseverance and no else has a story quite like mine. TC also reminded me of the power in meeting others who share parts of my story. My Papa hasn't healed, blessed, and rescued me for my own sake. My story has the power to show people who He is and what He can do in and through their lives. I am the only person that can tell my story and I have a responsibility to tell it.
9. Download the Wobble.
The most fun moments were impromptu. I led a group in one of my favorites called “the funky chicken” (thanks Andrea!) and there were lots of dance parties that included The Wobble. The Race will be intense and knowing how to have fun and cut loose is crucial.
10. We Are Contributors.
In each place we go, we are encouraged to ask, “God, how can we contribute to what you’re already doing here?” This is a humbling reminder that what happens this year doesn’t rest on us. It’s already happening. We just have to seek after our place in it!
11. Trust isn’t an Option.
This journey requires A LOT of faith. Although my faith first rests in God, I am also committing myself to trusting AIM, squad mates, ministry contacts, friends and family. In some way my safety, financial security, health, and growth relies heavily on others. I cannot do anything this year without your continued giving, challenge, and encouragement. Somehow this is both the most vulnerable and safest position I have been in.
If this week is any indication of the year to come, let’s all strap in tight and get ready for a crazy ride! Now that Training Camp (TC) has ended, I’m only 6 weeks away from Launch…eek!
Of all the lessons I learned, which do you want to hear more about? Leave a comment below or click “EMAIL ME” on the left hand side and I’ll answer any questions you may have. I look forward to continuing the conversation with you!
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MAKE A DONATION: I still need $6,278 to cover the cost for this trip. If you are able to support me financially, click "MAKE A DONATION" on the left to make a tax-deductible donation. Or, cut out the small online processing fee by mailing a check to:
Adventures in Missions
PO Box 534470
Atlanta, GA 30353-4470
Checks should be made out to "Adventures in Missions".
***Put "PERKINSSHATERIKA" in the memo line of the check!!!!!***
