[For those of you that have just started following my journey, this post is meant to explain what in the world I’m doing, why in the world I’m doing it, and where I’m goin 🙂 ]

 

Hello everyone! So, instead of going straight to college…I’ve decided to go on a trip that will change my life. Kissin traditional American materialism goodbye and living out of a backpack for 9 months. Committing to service & selflessness, and learning apart from textbooks for a while.

 

“Why are you going? Why not continue your education this fall?”

Okay, so here’s the thing: My answer to this one is pretty layered. I’ll try to keep it concise:

  1. If I want the world to be a better place, I’ve got to contribute. This is one way for me to use my strengths to give back to our siblings around the world. I can share spiritual hope and live out love in my actions everyday. All of those things are just as important here in the U.S., but I don’t want to miss this global opportunity.

  2. Environment. I really think I need to be out of the classroom for a year. I am forever grateful for my education, but a lot has happened during highschool that I want to process. The idea of working with my hands, building houses and human connection, that’s what I want to be doing. I need a shift from a 12-year school setting, and this gap year is the perfect opportunity to do that and remain productive.

  3. I’m feeling called out of my comfort zone. I know God has a sense of humor, because of a bunch of little ironies have been slipped into this situation. More on that later, but the main point is: I feel it. I’ve got to go. This is a choice my heart resounds with, even with its level of difficulty.

 

  • just to clarify, I’ve been admitted to Whitworth University and plan on attending once I return, since I have deferred until Fall 2018. College on pause.

 

“So girl, where are you going?”

  • The countries on this trip may change if World Race thinks it necessary, but at the moment, my current Route includes: India, Nepal, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, and Ecuador.

 

 

ALSO! – To make this trip happen, I need to do a lot of fundraising. Your financial support, even $1, is greatly appreciated. If you are able to contribute, that would be HUGE for me, and I’ll do another post on said fundraising to elaborate on how you can help me out. And of course, if you’re not in a position to donate right now, keeping me in your prayers and thoughts means a lot to me. Much love. God bless you guys.

I think that covers the basics! If you have more questions just contact me, I’d be happy to answer whatever I can. Really excited about this next chapter of my life, and I treasure your support throughout it.