Hey friends!

This week's blog...is about training camp!

Training camp was the first week of our program, held at the home base for adventures in missions in Gainesville, Georgia. Coming into training, I wasn't really sure what I thought it would be like. Whatever I did expect, however, was quickly thrown out the window.

Difficulties

As did most others, I had a rough couple of days getting used to training. Things were just harder than expected all around; for example, there were many small inconveniences, such as sleeping outside in tents, bucket showers, only using portapotties, having to stick to a strict schedule without much or any alone time, and so on. There was also information overload the first night, where many rules and procedures were given regarding training, and adjusting to everything all at once was difficult.

Additionally, adding in sleep deprivation from struggling to rest in the tents every night made it hard to pay attention during our many teaching sessions each day. Other factors of difficulty consist of trying to make friends in the midst of a whole new group of people while staying sociable and presentable, learning to give up the independence you are used to from living on your own, and adapting with sudden catastrophes such as the night that the tents flooded, to name a few.

However, training camp wasn't all bad...in fact, there are also many wonderful things that came from it as well.

Joys

First of all, there are so many amazing people God brought to this squad. I am so grateful to have met and to be able to live and work with my friends on this trip.

Another great part about training camp was the time we spent together in the word. We developed a good habit of devotional time and praying together, learning to keep the Lord as our priority.

Additionally, we had many sessions of teaching about the Bible and missions, which was very eye opening and beneficial. We also got to worship everyday, which was a great time of devotion to the Lord that enabled me to simply stay connected with God and attuned to what He has for me each day.

One of the most fulfilling parts of training camp was ministry night, where everyone went out in groups with a local church member or world race staff member to evangelize to strangers at a park in town. My group came across a middle aged man who took his kids to the park to play, and we had fruitful conversation about his beliefs and the gospel for a good hour. I personally was able to share scripture in response to questions and doubts he had with biblical integrity, and we saw him open up to the gospel and soften his heart towards the Lord as well, so that really filled my cup and encouraged me going into this mission trip.

Overall, I am grateful that I was able to experience training camp with my squad, and I know the LORD has so much in store for me after experiencing the first week of my race. I can't wait to see how He works through me this summer