Debrief
Debrief. Without a doubt one of the craziest experience of my race so far. When I arrived I was extremely tired and decided to take a nap. Four hours later when I woke up I felt like crap. It made me pretty upset, however, I tried my hardest to not let it effect me. Right after discovering I was sick, we had a worship session and it was announced that there would be team changes. Going into this weekend I imagined a time of rest, restoration, and fun. Instead I got a very intense, very real look at change. Team changes was always just an idea of what could happen, could not would. This put everyone in a heightened state of “weirdness.” It was literally the only thing people talked about, and the anticipation only got more intense as the days went on. After team debriefs started, it was very clear that team changes had to happen. Although many people have grown individually, this first three months haven’t pushed “team growth.” Individual growth is extremely important, however we are called as christians to live with one another in community. That is the key, without that fundamental aspect, this whole thing would crumble.
At first I was very base level with the team change subject. It just really made me angry that people made this subject their focus, and not actually processing and hearing from God. My heart was extremely split on this issue. Part of me actually wanted a team change. My team was very mature and passionate. We got things done, and dove in with our all. We invested in one another and did some cool things. But I looked at a team change as a really cool opportunity to spread my team out. We all have a lot to offer and I believed it was time to share that with different members on the squad. I felt like there could be a lot of good from splitting us up. But on the other hand, I really liked my team. It seems like we had finally reached that “family” level, and now they could split us up?
On day 2, there were four team debriefs. The basic design of a team debrief is to gather your team and meet with the squad leaders, the squad mentor and the squad couches. You talk about struggles, celebrations, what you learned, what you want to take with you to the next country, and so on. My team debrief was on the 3rd day and we were dead last. I was actually pretty nervous. I knew we didn’t have any problems to deal with, but it was the first team debrief, so my senses were a bit on edge. I went into Zach mode basically. As we all gathered and sat down, I calmed down and thought about the questions carefully. Saying the answer in my head so I knew what to say. It was an excellent debrief. We really were encouraged by everyone. They said how much we have grown and that we really had something that the whole squad needs. It was a very bitter sweet moment, knowing we had done something awesome but it was our passion and driven spirits that destined our team to change. I felt much more peace after that debrief. I knew whatever team I ended up with, it was for a reason. Later that night we found out what are new teams were, and let me just say mine is pretty great. I have an awesome new leader Angela, along with Anna and Lindsay. Also I’m with my bro Raed and Nathan. Nathan is a super cool guy, and we’ve already had some pretty deep conversations together and that was when we weren’t on the same team. I feel a lot of passion, willingness and heart in this team. Everybody is ready to dive in, not only to missions but into one another. Its a great thing to have, especially when thats your community. I see a team that will push each other and call one another higher.
So what have I learned here in the Philippines. Ive learned a lot about trust, trust with God. There is a lot of things in my life right now that I have no control over. It actually sucks and all I can do is trust God that he has everything under control. I’ve also learned a lot about forgiveness and what it actually means. Its always been about getting that apology to move on. But very humbly I have been reminded that forgiveness is for us, to get unnecessary weight off, weight we no longer need to carry because the cross. Probably the biggest thing I’ve learned is how to serve and love well. I have been taught how to love the hard people and how to reach out and pour into other people. I have always been pretty reserved, but now I am seeking others and making sure they are doing alright. People really appreciate that I listen, and its cool to help people out you know? Just listening is really helpful for people, and if I can give them advice, it makes it even better. The Philippines was absolutely fantastic and I will be back. My Mom and I are coming next summer most likely. Its great- the people, the ministry, everything.
The Mountain
Well Africa is much different than I had expected. I thought grass plains, extreme heat, and a very, very brown atmosphere. Instead, I got beauty beyond measure. I am living in the mountains, with an extremely green landscape, and surprisingly cool weather( and rain). Its a great change of pace up on this mountain. I am staying at El Shaddai which is a home and school for some 50 Swazi children. Its a great place. I have daily construction projects from 9-12 then free time till 3 when I have buddy time till 5. At 5 we have chapel and thats it for the day. There is so much time to rest and run after God and get into his presence. I love the physical labor i am still able to do, and playing with the kids always brings me joy. The Philippines were very hectic so it is a new concept being in a peaceful place. I am here til he end of December then my team and I will be at a new location in Swazi.
