My experience at launch has been nothing short of amazing. Launch is where all the racers from the last training camp come together to leave for the start of our 11-month mission abroad. We have a few days of training for our positions and responsibilities, as well as sessions on major concepts like ministry host expectations and orphanage training.
My parents came up for launch, which I think left them at peace with my decision to pursue the World Race. By now they should be used to me leaving the country and home for long periods of time. I couldn’t help but reflect on how different my goodbye was to my parents this time around in comparison to the first time I left the country:
The first time I left the country I was studying abroad in Spain for a semester in 2014. It would be four months before I saw a familiar face again and I had never lived outside of my home city. I remember how my parents flew out to Spain with me to drop me off, as it was a great reason for them to have their first experience abroad as well. I can remember our goodbye so vividly. They were headed to the airport as I stayed behind to take a train from Madrid up to Oviedo in the north. I watched them with their hands on the glass as tears ran down their face while the van drove away. I had this pit in my gut and I sobbed. As I got on the train I felt like a nervous, anxious wreck, not knowing a soul in the country. It was the hardest goodbye I’ve had to give yet.
Fast forward to my experience now leaving for another extended period of time. It was three years ago that I first left the country and now I’ve been to over 17 countries (before the World Race). Saying goodbye this time around was such a beautiful experience as everything has seemed to come full circle. When I first left the country to study in Spain, I didn’t know how much it would end up impacting the direction of my life. It didn’t cross my mind that those experience would shape my desires and my career in the way that it has. But this time is different. This time I know that walking on that first plane for the World Race, I won’t be coming back the same woman. It’s going to change my life radically again. But this time I’m aware of it, I’m embracing it and I’m ready for it.
Saying goodbye to my parents this time, I didn’t cry or tear up while walking away. I gave them a bittersweet smile and told them a “see you later”. Walking away for me this time is with a grace, poise and peace that surpasses all understanding. I walked away with confidence, knowing my place in this world. I walked away with excitement for the cultures I’ll encounter and the lives that will change.
This time I’m ready. World Race here I come.
Written with beauty and grace. Thank you for sharing another part of your story. It is evident that when we follow God’s plan, there is a unique, quiet confidence that comes with it!!
I see the change in you already. You were born to be a shinning light in those lives that see darkness. It was hard to see you go but I know You are needed and will do Gods good work to spread love and joy through your kindness and hugs . I will miss you.
Love you so much.. Proud mama??
Just read about your new friend, Emil. Your writing really makes his story REAL. These kids are living lives so different than most 15 year olds here in the US. We will be praying for him and the others you are ministering! Love you! Keep up the good work and keep omg us posted! Xoxo Auntie Ann
Hi sweetie! Your story about Emil and his thoughts and fears are the very reason you are where you should be right now. Your wisdom and faith will guide him and the many teens you will come across and minister to –you are a shining witness to Christ’s undying Love for each of them. Blessings this next year! Love, Auntie Lynettie
This brought tears to my eyes all over again as I was also in that van in Spain as we drove away and have never prayed harder in my life for your safe return (still do) But little did we know it was the beginning of the greatest journey of your young life! I will never stop saying You are a true gift from God Erica Ann and we are over the moon proud! Love and miss you more than the miles we are apart. God Speed and Love from your Godmother, all your family and fur babies Auntie Dar xoxo