Hey y’all!
First of all, today is Easter so I already have a lot to be excited about, but God has also presented me with this amazing opportunity so I’m over the moon at this point. Since this is my first blog post, I figured I’d go ahead and explain my journey of committing to The Race.
I first heard about the World Race sometime last fall in a conversation with my friend. I didn’t think much of it after they explained that it required me to take a gap year and forgo college. But for some reason, when I got home, I decided to do some independent research and I found a website with this awesome video showing kids like me traveling the world, and most importantly, making a difference. I showed my parents and, like they always have been, were very encouraging and supported whatever decision I was gonna make.
However, like most high school seniors, I was also submitting my college applications at the time and this trip just seemed a little too far-fetched, so I laid it to rest for the time being. I applied to multiple schools and felt fairly confident that I was headed on the right path for me. With that being said, I never had officially ruled out The Race as an option, and the more I thought about it, the more I felt called to go. As I mentioned, I am blessed with a super supportive family, so I brought it up to my uncle. He explained to me that the hesitation I had of committing to The Race was not out of fear of what I’d be doing on the trip, but fear of the decision itself.
I had never made a decision this big, in terms of altering the path of my life. But once I had come to terms with this, all of that fear disappeared. It was in the moment that I let go of control, that I stopped thinking about what it was that I was “supposed” to do and I was able to realize what I was called to do.
With this experience, I hope to continue this pattern of letting go of control, and to act on faith above all else.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
-Will
Will, I am sending a token of my gratitude honoring the vital role your grandparents, Bud and Barbara Case, made in my life. They supported me as teacher and mentor during pivotal times in my life. I pray this journey is one of true self awareness and closeness with God.
WILL!! So cool to hear more of your story on why you chose the race! Your decision story is a lot like mine!! I can’t wait to meet you and become friends!! See you at training camp!!
letting go of control and acting on faith! If that doesn’t sum up this crazy year we are approaching I don’t know what does! Loved reading your story!