I wanted to start a series of blogs containing open letters. For me I have always fought and advocated for vulnerability. Being raw and honest through the hard things but also in the celebrations of life’s victories and joys.
The first of this series will be about a friend back in the states who has truly shaped me into who I am today.
Welcome to the first and last open letter of 2018.
In August of 2014 I made a big leap of faith and bought a one way ticket to Texas. I lived with my brother and his family in a north suburb of Dallas. The beginning of that season was full of hard times, loneliness, doubts and me believing lies I was telling myself. In October things changed. I visited a church called Prestonwood Baptist Church. A mega church in the heart of Plano. It was there where I first met the girl with the cheetah scarf.
To the girl with the cheetah scarf,
When I first met you, I felt that your stories made me feel like I’ve known you for years. You are one of the most warm and inviting people I’ve ever met.
You have walked side by side in every valley since I’ve known you and for that I am eternally grateful. You fight for those around you in such a unique, beautiful way and it’s amazing to watch. You are a shepherd. You invest in people and love them like Jesus in a whole new way. It’s so cool to watch.
When my brother moved away from Texas and I moved back I had zero family there. That was a lie I chose to believe. You are my family. You are my sister. You tell me the hard things but with love and gentleness. That’s not easy to do. We laugh hard and love hard.
When I was growing up, Sunday after church lunches were my favorite. The conversations at restaurants on Sunday’s are ones I will carry with me forever. Thank you for not only bringing nostalgia but keeping it.
You have truly changed my views on being a pastors kid. I have always wrestled with it. You have taught me how to see the good in the hard times. How to always choose joy. How to love my Dad better. How it’s important to pray for him. Not just my Dad but my entire family.
When I was sitting at Eatzi’s and watching you tell crazy stories I never knew what a huge role you would play in my life.
Thank you for bringing the zest and fun of life that is truly needed. I will always be in your corner. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your investment in my life. You will always be my favorite East Texan.
Forever your friend,
Zach
The girl in the cheetah scarf has been a huge part of my life and has been a huge part of why I’m on the race. Thank you friend. Today is her birthday. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. Sending you cannons of confetti from Africa! Can’t wait to catch up over queso and peach tea!
