First, heck yeah. I’m so glad you said yes. Second, buckle up. This is based on my experience so far so keep in mind that we are not the same human, we are not on the same race, and I am a little dramatic at times so don’t take this for absolute truth. BUT, I do want to give some advice and insight into this journey that you can never actually be ready for. With that being said, I want you to know that the race is:
- Not as glamorous as the artsy pictures you see on Instagram
- Something I would recommend to EVERYONE
- your real life. ministry becomes an everyday thing and it is not a 1 week mission trip. Life in another country becomes regular life.
- NOT like training camp. Stick it out
- The most beautiful adventure you will have up to this point but only a launching pad into everything that’s next
- Rewarding beyond explanation
- Testing beyond compare
- a place and time to gain the tightest family and friends and a life long community
- Not always as rural as you think. BRING NICE CLOTHES! You will want to feel a little put together sometimes
- Not always as dangerous as your parents are scared of it being. You don’t need self defense classes
- The best time to meet yourself and grow into who God wants you to be for him.
- NOT for quitters
- An amazing learning experience that makes the 1 year of school you might miss worth it (I have nothing against school, I’m going when I get back, there are just so many things they can’t teach you in a classroom)
- a time to be able to constantly press into the Lord but also not a 9 or 11 month spiritual high. Give yourself grace. Don’t place expectations over yourself. Have goals and hopes but expect nothing but growth.
- Tough. It is hard at times.
- A turning point in your life if you let God move the way he wants to
- A time to realize your deepest dreams and desires and discover and step into your skill set
- So many more things that I can’t put into words yet
As my World Race experience is way too quickly coming to an end (HELLO USA IN T-2.5 MONTHS), I am looking back on this season with eyes much wider than when I was in the midst of it (yes I know it’s not over yet). I was so so lucky to have had a friend who went on the race the year before me so I got quite a bit of advice before I launched, but there are not any stories, pictures, or tips that can ever prepare anyone for this. The growth, brokenness, adventures, friendships, long and sometimes seemingly pointless ministry days, and every other detail that the race entails are completely unique to each person the Lord brings on board. If you are thinking about doing the World Race or even just have more questions about what it is or what my experience has been, please please don’t be afraid to ask me! I would love to tell you and I promise I don’t water things down, it’ll be real and raw. I guess I should also mention I’m in Thailand now. Thanks so much for your support!
Alex,
What an inspiration it is to read your articles. Choosing your thoughts and actions based on values rather than personal gains.
We are so proud of you and the adventure you are on.
Lots of Love,
Bryan
Thank you so much Bryan, that really means a lot! I can’t thank you enough for your encouragement!
Great wisdom! Hoping these words will encourage, inspire, prepare and ignite hearts of future racers. Love and miss you!
Alex!! I love keeping up with your posts! It’s been awesome to see the way God is using you in the lives of others around you! I can’t wait to hear stories when you get back. So proud of the way you are holding onto Jesus and running the race with perseverance!
Love this, Alex!!! Fave part: “You don’t need self defense classes”. LOLLLLL. But really, I loved this. Thanks for sharing your heart!
Mama Alex coming in clutch for all the future racers 😉 these are some great tips!! I can’t believe you will be home so soon! If you want to visit me I won’t be mad haha! Love you lots and lots!! Praying for you as you finish out this crazy journey!!