If I were to choose one word to describe training camp (TC), ROLLERCOASTER would be my choice.
When in a rollercoaster you have so many ups and downs, sometimes you think you are getting to the end but all of a suddenly there’s a turn around and you are close to where you started. Not to mention the suspense of what comes next. But when you are done and it’s time to go home, all you want to do is go again. Because you had so much fun that you are not yet ready to go home.
And that my friend is training camp.
Now for those wanting a more worded explanation:
At training camp the first few days there’s a lot of emotional talk. To the point that day 2, feels like the second time you swing upside down and you say: “ok it was fun, it’s time for this to end”
Then there’s all the exercise, add that to all the emotional talk, cries and laugher. Needless to say you are exhausted, stinking and ready for your much needed, cold, bucket shower.
The days to come you have the suspense on who you’ll be teamed up with for the first few months and field scenarios (which I particularly loved). They stop giving plates and silverware and still a lot of exercise.
You are put out of your comfort zone, so many times. But that allows you to get to know the people you are going to live with, so much more.
Last but maybe the most important we have some spiritual studies and outline of how AIM works and what they expect from us.
And when you pack to leave TC you look around and it feels like you are leaving home instead of heading home. You see your squad mates and you are now saying goodbye to your family. Because somehow throughout that rollercoaster those you only met 10 days before, were no longer strangers but part of who you are.
And an organization you met online and talked with on the phone. Becomes something you are proud to be a part, like your baby that you will go to battle to defend.
So thank you AMI for the work you do, for making it possible for young adult like me that want to be missionaries, be able to live this life style for a year, as I get closer to God and discover the details of my calling.
