Sitting here in the comfy chair in the corner of the World Race and Short-term department I am overwhelmed with emotions.
It hit me that I only have about two weeks left in Gainesville.
I feel as if I just drove up here, just met my housemates, just went on the hiking trip, just had my first day of classes.
I’m extremely thankful for this time.
I’m thankful because this time has been refreshing for my soul. Even now I still miss the Race, I still miss my squad. I’m thankful to have some of my squadmates near and to be surrounded by people who have had similar experiences.
I mean no offense to friends and family at home. I value each of you, but there is something very special about this community I have here. There is a special connection, an understanding of what we have each experienced without words being spoken. And where else is it common for people to say. “oh yea, I’ll be gone this weekend. I’ll be in Moldova.”? This community of Jesus-loving, globe-trotting, big-dream-dreamers, Kingdom-bringers is something I will forever cherish and be blessed to be a part of.
I’m thankful for the growth this season has brought. Up until now, everything I have done has been short-term. Missions track has helped me to shift my thinking from a short-term mindset to a long-term mindset. It has helped me to realize that I am no longer sprinting, I am running a marathon. I’m no runner but I think you prepare for and run a marathon differently than you would a sprint.
It has helped me to recognize the cultural lens through which I see the world, and to have the framework to better understand the worldview of others. The World Race may have expanded my worldview, but Missions track has allowed me to realize the values I take for granted and assume others hold as well.
CGA, as a whole, has helped me gain a better understanding of who God has created me to be. Several weeks ago I shared that I was processing through my doubts that God creatively created me (Creative Creator). I knew the truth, but CGA has allowed me the space to wrestle through my questions and doubts, and for the Father to show me the unique characteristics, abilities, and traits He has given me.
Walking into this season I viewed it as a necessary step to pursue my desire to go to the Philippines long-term. I couldn’t fathom the blessing this season would be.
Now it is coming to a close and I am realizing that although I am beyond excited for the new things to come, I will have to grieve the end of this sweet season in Gainesville, Georgia.
In other news, if my calculations are correct, I am FULLY funded for CGA! Yay!
Thank you to everyone who helped me to be here this semester. I cannot fully portray in words how thankful I am!
