Not sure if you noticed, but Christmas is nearly here. I look out the window and I see gravel. No snow (yet), but that’s Georgia.
Obviously a variety of stories come to mind:
- Playing king of the hill and breaking off a 4' icicle (literally) and carrying it home with my dad
- Going to Aunt Sue’s for fried fish that I still haven’t acquired a taste for
- Riding sleds with the sole intent of colliding into my brother
- Drinking alcoholic eggnog and realizing that I like the taste of “kids” eggnog better
One fond memory, though, is when my brother and I went in on a gift together for my Papa Bear. We probably began scouring the local golf store in early November. By foot, the store was about a 9-minute walk. But on our sweet two-wheeled bicicletas (repetitive, I know), it was no more than 3 minutes. Maybe 6:17 if we stopped at Burger King on the way.
We were of the pre-iPod age in which buying more than two packs of sports cards a week was frivolous spending. We were also of the age in which our definition of “frivolous” would have been something like: Frivolous—when one is really frivolry.
In our eyes my dad was a very good golfer because he was able to use a wood elsewhere on the course other than when it was teed up and his score was only two digits. Having recently taken up golf myself in the backyard, I knew that my dad’s long irons were more useful in the garden. He needed a substitute.
Substitute found: a 7 wood. Many of them actually. All different price ranges. Because my brother and I were going in on the gift together that allowed us to get him a top-notch club. If my memory serves me correctly, I believe we walked out of the store after our eighth visit with a $29 women’s club.
It’s the thought that counts, right?
Merry Christmas Dad. Sorry ‘bout the gift. My thriftiness comes from mom.
Remember how close Ariel came to kissing her lover boy in the boat before the eels tipped it? Or how close Chance, Shadow, and Sassy were to home before almost-disaster struck?
That’s how close I was to writing a blog entitled something like, “The Appeal,” which would have included such helpful, well…appeals to mankind such as “Please don’t walk by that piece of paper on the ground without picking it up. Create times each day to live how mankind did for most of the world’s existence: no Internet, TV, or air conditioning. Value the person’s time trying to turn out of the parking lot more than your own. It was going to end with a witty call-to-action like, “Please. Create. Value.”
But then I realized that—here comes the analogy—reflections in the water, while they do have my blurry face in them, actually show more of what is around me than, well…me.
Therefore, instead of telling, I’m asking.
Would you please share one story from your life? Just one good thing that’s happened to you recently. Something that took place, but needs to remembered before it's shoved back with the To-Dos of life. Something that will make me, and other reader's go, "Wow, I'm glad that happened to that person."
Recently accepted to grad school? Promoted at work? Birth of a grandson? Double coupon Sunday? Rerun of Get Smart on TV Land? Went to bed on sheets just taken out of the dryer?
I’ll start us off with mine below (see first comment). If you don’t want to comment, feel free to hit up westonbelkot@gmail.com.
It will help me focus less on myself by celebrating your stories with you. (I recognize the ironic selfishness in that sentence.)
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The video features the poetic genius of Mike Perez.
PS: Here are some pics that were the byproduct of my encouraging colleagues to share.
What is it that you do?
Do you crunch numbers or manage a zoo?
Is your office the home in which you reside,
Or in a cubicle, no one around in which to confide?
You do what I do,
We do what they do.
What is it that you say,
To get your pay or earn an A?
Do you tell people about your eternal hope,
Or help addicts recover from dope?
You do what I do,
We do what they do.
Our business is the same,
So let’s stop playing the game.
Thinking that what you do
Is not what we do.
That’s easily probably the worst poem I’ve ever written, but the point is that we’re in the same business. Let me explain.
The marketing team for AIM just got back late last night from a marketing retreat to New York City. We had the opportunity to serve with a short-term missions team from South Carolina, bond as a team, and pick the brains of six different influential people from some notable organizations including charity: water, IJM, and the author of unchristian.
Along with the lists of things we need to do better and perspective shifts I’ll hopefully put into place in the years to come, I learned that we’re in the same business.
Some people might be trying to make sure that 1 billion people get clean water, some rescuing trafficking victims from brothels, and some writing to keep Christianity relevant.
Some maintain integrity in their offices when compromising would be easier and more financially beneficial, some teach kids responsibility and respect through English, Science, and Math curriculums, and some maintain a home environment that is conducive to growth.
Some lead the congregation in praise, some stand with the congregation during worship, but WE ALL WORSHIP!
It’s not so much a question of WHAT we each do, but HOW we do it. We’re all in the same business of glorifying our creator. If we can understand that, how much more will the church—I’m not talking about people in buildings—stop duplicating efforts and work together for each other’s causes and not just our own.
When it’s for the Kingdom, every sacrifice of time or recommendation is “mutually beneficial.” I’m glad I’m in the same business as you. It makes it easier to remember who is the boss.
While working on a project recently it was explained to me that there are always three factors to consider—time, money, and quality—and you can’t have all three.
Want something fast and cheap? You’ll sacrifice quality.
Need it next day delivery? Get ready to pay up.
Want the best when it comes to finding a better half? That could take time. Just might take 25 years and 354 days to be precise. (Her future name is Jessica Belkot.)
This is not how we’re programmed. This is not how we’re marketed to. We are told that you can have it cheap and you’ll get quality quickly. We are told that there is an Easy button or a free app that will take care of those problems. That will answer the questions and take away the pain.
As a teenage I knew it “all.” In college I defied logic and learned more than “all.” After school I realized the explanation of life couldn’t be found in an encyclopedia. Now, I’m just confused.
Why are we trying to remove unpleasantries from our lives? (That’s not rhetorical.) There seems to be this assumption that comfort is the goal. That “good” and “hard” can’t be synonymous.
Reading in Romans the other day I was reminded that “suffering leads to perseverance, perseverance leads to character, character leads to hope.”
I live on hope.
I desire character.
But I often want it without having to persevere or suffer.
That’s a setup for failure.
There are more and more easy buttons to life, but I want to hit them less and less. I’m realizing that easy is quick, but it is so much more expensive.
I've recently realized that I have taken for granted my life.
I get to see people stepping out in faith daily. Crazy steps.
I get to hear about God providing thousands of dollars for Racers. Regularly.
I get to read about professing Christians being broken for what breaks God's heart. Redemption.
I get to be inspired by men and women that put character in front of comfort. Consistently.
I am challenged by peers that know what God calls them to do...and they do it.
In honor of St. Patrick's Day, here is a blog posted by Logan Kaynes about doing what could be done, needs to be done, by all of us no matter what continent we're on.
Beautiful Feet is a homeless outreach ministry located in the city center of Belfast, Northern Ireland. They meet every Tuesday night, preparing sandwiches, tea and coffee that they then go and hand out. We had the opportunity to work with them this past Tuesday night and it blew my mind.
I was nervous because I had never worked with homeless in this way before and I started to doubt my ability in being able to understand and relate with someone who is homeless. Why would they want to talk to me? What do I possibly have to say to them; how are you? What do you like to do for fun? These questions were rubbish. Despite my lack of faith and trust that God would provide, I joined my group and let my excitement overshadow my nerves.
After talking with various homeless people, we then met 3 men in a hidden back alley behind a side road. Sam is 52 and has been homeless for about eight months, Billy is around 50 and has been homeless for about a year, and Michael, who is around 40, has been living on the streets for about 10 years. They were sitting helplessly, their eyes filled with sadness, drowning their sorrows with alcohol. I felt really led to go and sit next to Sam so I did.
We started talking and he tells me how him and Billy are trying to get out here so I asked him where to. He said England and I then asked him why and he said that his niece and nephew live there and I could tell in his eyes that he really wanted to be there with them. When I asked him the last time he saw them he said, “Two days ago. They see me here. Do you know how that makes me feel when they see me here?” I became silent for a few moments and then said, “I could only imagine, I am sure pretty shitty.” He nodded and shook his head and his face was filled with deep shame. In that moment, my heart was breaking for this man.
We continued to talk and I got to share with him some of my story of hopelessness, drinking and drugs. He got a little defensive so I backed down a bit. I then stood up because I thought we were getting ready to leave and Sam starts expressing his frustrations; “We don’t want food. We don’t want any more clothes. All we want is a safe place where we can sleep. We want a bed.” He went on for about 10 minutes and told me to look to the far left of him where there was a huge bloodstain on the ground. He told me that that happens often and that they have to sit and watch it because there is nothing they can do. My heart just continued to break for them.
In the midst of Sam expressing his pain, I heard the Lord say Hug him. When I heard that, I immediately said no way. He is in the middle of expressing his anger; I surely can’t do that right now. What if it was crossing boundaries? What if he refused the hug? All of my what ifs prevented me from obeying God in that moment. Then I felt the Lord pressing on my heart and he wouldn’t relent, so I couldn’t avoid Him any longer. I sat back down and took my camera off my neck and I approached Sam. I said, “Sam, I have a question.” He goes, “What?” (in a not so nice tone of voice). I said, “Do you mind if I give you a hug?” He looks at me sternly and frustratingly says, “two seconds”. So I go in and give him a hug and two seconds turned into five minutes. As I was hugging him so tight I said to him, “Sam, I am so sorry that I can’t give you a bed tonight and that all I can give you is a hug.” As he was hugging me, I felt him have a huge sigh of relief in my arms. Before letting me go he said, “I want my friends to have hugs too.” He then let me go, stood up and said, “Who is going to hug me next?” (with a huge grin on his face).
It was one of the most beautiful moments of my life. The rest of the group I was with hugged them one by one. His sorrow became joy. His pain fled. His frustration was relieved. I never knew the impact that a hug could have. I am all about a hug that revolutionizes and so I say, hug on…
Sam and Emily hugging.
Please note that you are under no obligation to read the following exhaustive list of answers to the questions I received. It’s really long, but it is thorough, organized, and categorized for your convenience and, I think, pretty darn interesting. Thank you for all the questions, and I did my best to combine questions that were similar in nature. The answers are in the following order starting with the phrase, “Questions about…”
A. Countries Visited
B. Personal “Not So Deep” Stuff
C. Personal “Deep” Stuff
D. Big Picture “Deep” Stuff
E. Return to America
F. Topics That Were Good But I Went for Humorous (Hopefully) Answers Instead.
G. Advice
**Note: This is the last picture you’re going to see on this blog. I’m telling you, it’s a doozy.
A. Countries Visited 1. Which country/countries are you okay with never visiting again?
Nigeria. Let’s just get this out there off the bat. We were pretty much on lockdown our entire four weeks while in Nigeria. It was hot, crowded, horrible roads, and even worse traffic. 2. Where did you experience god the most?
Guatemala. This has less to do with the place, and more to do with the fact that is was Month 1 of the Race and our contact was a man who lived a life of faith. 3. What was your favorite country and/or ministry and why?
Thailand. I was not looking forward to Asia, but most of us fell in love with Thailand. Quieter culture, still modern, beautiful land, beautiful welcoming friendly people, the food, and beautiful food for the palate. It also helped that our ministry that month was just the guys doing “manly” guy stuff in the woods for half the month. 4. What was your favorite language you tried to learn? and why?
Spanish, because I already knew some and saw a huge improvement, but also Thai because it is so drastically different. “Welcome” sounds like “So what the crap?” 5. The country with the most impersonal people?
Romania. This has less to do with being Romanian and more to do that for the first time in nine months we looked like the people around us. Celebrity status: gone. 6. The strangest cultural quirk that you encountered?
Lacerations on the face in Africa, especially Ghana. The scars—sometimes quite noticeable, that’s the point—are to distinguish their different tribes/villages.
B. Personal “Not Quite as Deep” Stuff 7. What will you miss most about the world race?
Reduction of distractions. I’d wake up and my focus was to serve, lead, love, and make sure I got enough food. Certainly I had responsibilities, but with incredible supporters and a squad that often times exemplified flexibility, the main thing could easily remain the main thing. 8. What do you look forward to with returning to the us?
Driving. My first day home I just went for a drive. No destination. It actually wasn’t for the action of driving, but to be alone and to be in control of where I go. 9. Are you excited about toilets and toilet paper...or will you miss the hand thing you wrote about in that one blog?
Obviously I want to say, “Yes, and even more so the seats,” but we finished the Race in Ukraine and Ireland, so my behind was well-taken care of especially near the end. 10. What will be your first meal at home? :)
It was going to be salmon, filet mignon (Cosco’s is amazing), and alfredo, but since I got home three hours later than planned I think it was salmon and applesauce with cinnamon. I love applesauce. 11. What's next for you after the race?
At the top of this page is a link to go back to my last blog entitled, “I’m Home” and “What’s next?!” Click it. 12. Who did you miss the most while you were gone for a year? It would be a really good thing to say "My mother of course!" You may get her deliciously cooked bacon more often!
My mother of course! 13. When are you coming to visit us in Colorado Springs? I can't wait to have your "high altitude" brownies again!
I just got a voucher from Delta for a botched flight, so maybe sooner than I expected. Note: baking directions aren’t the same everywhere. 14. Do you feel your heart tugging to return to any certain people or location?
Long term? No. We worked with a man in Thailand named Veerapong that I am planning on supporting. As you can imagine, it unfortunately becomes easy and routine to say “goodbye,” so while I was fully into what I was doing and who we were doing it with and for, I never felt that “tug.” 15. When will your first book be published?
So here’s the thing, I’ve had more than a few people ask this question or allude to something similar. Let’s just say that when people start rewording the question to “when can I BUY your first book” then I’ll start considering the idea. Thanks though! 16. Do you realize or are aware of the opportunity you had to reach people through your blog throughout your trip?
Uhm…yes, no, I mean, no. I think it’s like teaching: I’ll never know and I hope I did my best with what I was given. 17. What was the best food you had...and why? (I LOVE food :)
Best Food Consistently: Pad Thai and most any Asian dish.
Best Food Quality-Wise: Fresh home-grown food in Moldova. Oh what preservatives and chemicals do to our food and bodies.
C. Personal “Deep” Stuff 18. What was your biggest "not in Kansas anymore" moment during the first part of the Race?
This is not the type of answer I was expecting to put for this, but it’s what keeps coming to mind. Here is what I recently wrote a friend in an email. “The situation that runs through my head sometimes is actually when we were at the Hard Rock cafe on Christmas Night. There was an older, overweight, bald white American. He had at least four Thai girls there with him, but we found out that he has six wives. I've pondered this. Is this so bad? My first, guttural reaction is to repulsed. A guy coming over seas to get cheap and consistent sex. But...for all I know, maybe he's actually giving these girls a life. Maybe he takes care of them, and they don't have to sell their bodies to strangers, and maybe they love the "freedom" that he's brought them. That's one.” 19. Your most valued single experience?
With the Squad: Leading a Squad-wide Family Time. (Things needed to be talked about.)
In Ministry: Holding and praying for Sopath. http://westonbelkot.theworldrace.org/?filename=the-boy-who-would-not-smile 20. The most impactful thing you learned about missions?
When you enter a community to serve, look for the Assets not the Needs. 21. What passions or gifts did you discover?
To lead and to be led. 22. How are you going to preserve the "ghosts" of your travels. those individuals that meant the most to you, taught you, inspired you, pushed you...etc...that you may never hear/talk/see again?
Back in 8th grade, while sitting in a van, one of our youth group leaders encouraged me by saying that I asked good questions. I don’t remember her name or where we were, but that has changed how I approach and interact with people. Influence is passed on. I’ve been influenced. I hope to do the same. (I know this is an indirect answer, but I think that the preservation will be indirect in that it will likely be subconscious.) 23. How are you going to handle the return culture shock. its been a while since you have been in the usa, things change, but so much stays the same. I actually think that the World Race does a good job of giving Racers ample opportunity to prepare for re-entry, so it has been fine. Probably the easiest thing would be to come back and be overly-critical, but what does that accomplish? Not much, and it just breeds discontentment In Scripture when it says, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength,” that’s talking about being content. I’m content, change of culture or not. I’m great. I’m loving life, and I’m more excited about the future than any past years. 24. How is the race going to change how you live the rest of your life?
(The sound of fingers tapping on desk. More tapping. Scratching of head.) I could ramble, but here’s the main ones. I’ll care less about what others think—be free to be myself. I’ll be more joyful. I’ll (try really really hard) to love people for who they are. 25. How do you put into practice what you've learned on the race?
I’ll volunteer to serve in my local community. I’ll continually challenge myself and others to not be satisfied with my current perception or understanding of God. I’ll make a difference in my local community. I’ll be vulnerable, open, honest, and model grace even when it makes me want to cry. I’ll serve the people in my local community. 26. What was a special moment that others might have missed at any point along your journey that God really seemed to have hooked you with?
We got to be the church. The church that goes, trusts, asks for support, sees support come in, loves the ostracized, forgives the brother, cherishes the trivial, literally puts Scripture in application, wrestles with questions, discusses differences, but keeps the frickin’ main thing the frickin’ main thing: IT’S NOT ABOUT ME!!!! 27. What was something you struggled with, but were able to overcome?
(You might have wanted a deep “spiritual” answer, but this is what I thought of. It’s legit.) Back in Guatemala I fell and tumbled backwards down this hill. http://westonbelkot.theworldrace.org/?filename=falling-out-of-controlIt seriously freaked me out. I used to love to climb things. Not crazy freestyle rock climbing, but your low-level risk out in the woods, “let’s do it” type of thing. Two other times on the Race I seriously tried to overcome this fear. It’s as if my body now knows what it feels like to undesirably fall backwards, and it doesn’t like being put in those situations. I’m 1-1. Once I tried to climb this ladder. Couldn’t do it. I also climbed this loose dirt rock face over a river in Thailand. I did it! 28. How has your perspective on American Christianity changed after visiting believers around the world?
Paraphrased someone once told me, “To the Jews Christianity was a Relationship. Then it moved to Greece and Christianity became a Philosophy. In Rome it became a Culture. Then in America it became a Business.” It hurts, but it’s also hard to deny. The thing is that I’ve come to love the global church. Not the buildings, or even the people all that much, but the church that is the bride of Christ. We’ve got a lot of things wrong, but so do other places. http://westonbelkot.theworldrace.org/?filename=westons-africa Ok, let’s try this hat on. “We” think that our Christianity is better. Even the “they”s in other countries think our Christianity is better. (It’s not.) We’re all lacking. We all see a small section of the elephant. How has my perspective changed? I’m excited to know that following God is so much bigger and exciting and joyful and fulfilling than I ever thought. (It’s also really hard, but “hard” is not in contradiction to any of the previous words I listed.) 29. Do you feel like you have a better idea of what God's purpose/plan/calling is for your life after this trip? And if so, what is it?
Whoever asked this question did not use this word nor had this intention, but I’m going to tweak this a little bit so I can mount a soap box. (At least I’m honest.) I’ve heard a lot if I now know what I’m “supposed” to do. I know it’s just wording, but something about previous times I’ve been asked has this tone of “the one thing you should do in life.” So my calling? (I don’t have a traditional answer yet.) It’s to live free from the bondage and burden of shame, guilt, rejection, and fear. In that freedom I’m going to listen to the voice—He speaks!—which I already know is going to say to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.” I’m called to take care of the sick and widowed. I’m called to love without expecting love back, and forgive because I’ve been forgiven. I’m called to set the captives free, whatever that means. So I guess, “yes,” I do have a better grasp on my calling. Much better. 30. Do you feel that you made a difference this past year? Was that really the point of the trip?
Love the question! To the point, asking about the point. I could ramble on about how the “World Race” is an eleven month program, but the vision of the World Race is so large it would be minimized to merely call it a movement. Yes, I made a difference. To focus on a non-obvious example for a moment, unfortunately not in all cases, but a lot of times we were there to serve and bless the ministry itself. The pastor or volunteer or entrepreneur or coach or whoever. We’re only there for three or four weeks. It’s the people who do the sweating and grinding day in and day out without the blog glamorizing their lives that I’ve been blessed to meet. So, hold on. Should bopping around country to country happen if it’s the people staying that bring in the harvest? One name: Paul. I’m not Paul, definitely didn’t wait until the eighth day, but he went around encouraging and challenging the churches. So did the disciples. We’re called to “go.” It’s pretty simple. Yes, it looks different for different people, but just remember that it looks different for different people.
Sorry, the point. For the participants, yes, that was the point. For leadership, it’s a small piece of the pie. Unfortunately the view of the pie takes a while to fully see. 31. There was one thing you said in particular that really jumped out, and I was wondering if you would elaborate on it. "(I am) More sure of God's power and presence, yet....More likely to vocalize doubts about God and simultaneously feel closer to him."
When I don’t understand or comprehend something, I have to lean on something—or someone--else. For some this is science, for others faith, for others a chair, for others poor attempts at humor. Following God I have every opportunity to ask every single question I can possibly think of, and I don’t need to run or avoid a topic out of fear that my theology won’t hold up. (In fact, I almost don’t want my theology to hold up because I want it to expand, not remain a categorized, dust-free box.) When I have doubts, I am not afraid to express it, because I’ve seen God show up before. As I lean away, it’s as if I end up leaning write into His arms. (Too cheesy?) It’s like I’ve taken a pen, written out all my questions and concerns with following Him, He’s looked it over, answered them all, and gave me a new piece of paper for any future questions. Keep doing that enough, it’s becomes kind of fun knowing He’s going to answer, but having no idea how.
D. Big Picture Deep Stuff 32. What is the main point/idea you will bring back to me, as a non-religious...non-believer, about faith, god, and the place of religion in our current society?
Probably my favorite question for a variety of reasons. In short, my answer is, “I’m going to bring back the same old thing.” Here’s what I mean. (Did you really doubt that I would explain?) As I step out more and more, I’m realizing more and more that what has been said is true, really is true. I don’t want to harp on the wording of the question, but it’s important to what I’ve been realizing. The phrase is “place…in our current society.” (I know it was only said about “religion” but I’m applying it to “faith” and “god” as well.) Let’s try this. We, myself included, try to put God, faith, and religion into society. We question its place. That’s like searching for pizza’s place in a pepperoni. (Weird, weak analogy, but it’ll serve its purpose.) Pizza is far greater than pepperoni. God, faith, and “religion”—Scripture says that true religion is looking after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world—are greater than society. I’m not trying to dodge the question—I’ll come back to this—but it’s difficult to answer a question that actually doesn’t fit into my world view. In a sense, it’s as if society is continually discovering God. We might label it psychology or sociology, because we need to name and categorize in order to bring sense to a seemingly senseless world. I apologize for not having an example on hand, but as I’ve been pondering this question since you posted it I’ve heard a couple “discoveries” or results of experiments and testing. Each time my response was, “That’s in Scripture.” We live in an extremely inefficient world. Every year we send a new batch of children to learn the exact same alphabet that their ancestors’ ancestors learned. Systemically we are dealing with the same things dealt with for quite a while. Sure, we’ve added our own diseases to the mix, but poverty has always been with us. (That’s in Scripture.) We are also extremely inefficient because we make discoveries but those same discoveries need to be rediscovered for the next person 10, 20, 100, 1000 years later. The belief in God by some of the greatest minds in history, for example Jonathon Edwards, Galileo, Newton, Descartes, Kepler, and Einstein, isn’t enough. We have to re-ask and rediscover for ourselves. That’s not bad. It’s great actually. (Now we can have seminaries and Religion as a major at universities all across the globe to potentially bring disunity to churches everywhere.) Refocusing. It’s there. Whether we recognize it or not, God, faith, and “religion” are there. In short, here’s where I’m at. I keep stepping out, asking every question I can, and Scripture seems to be continually validated. I know this isn’t about the veracity of the Bible, because frankly I know very little about how the Bible is different than other holy books. And I haven’t even brought Jesus into the picture. I had this moment about 16 months ago where I came to the conclusion that I believed in Christianity because it was the single most logical explanation for me, to make sense of all that is. Everything else fell short. Nothing else brought me the fulfillment I desired. That realization 16 months ago screwed me up bad. I had completely reduced God to a slice of pepperoni so I could make Him a part of my life, not my life. So all that I bring back is the same old thing, just reworded into my own persuasions using the appeals I know. That’s all it’s ever been, and it’s all it will ever be. The same old thing. So if something isn’t changing, is there something to be said about that? I, obviously, think so. (I really do apologize if I didn’t answer the question. I certainly hope so. See you soon.) 33. What surprised you the most about god during this journey?
He actually does show up, and it’s usually about 1/100th of a second before you want to give up completely on Him. Abandonment and brokenness is a grand thing. 34. What is the most amazing thing you have learned about God through this experience?
He makes life worth living. (Now readers, especially non-religious—whatever that actually is—just stop and think without getting all super-spiritual, WHAT MAKES LIFE WORTH LIVING? You might think of your affection with your wife, your devotion to your job, your passion for justice, your love for your children. What do all of things have in common? Love for something! What is God? LOVE!) Get all the religious crap out of the way and there’s God. Right there, exactly as He said He was. He’s patient, He is kind, He is…not what I thought, or what I’ll ever think He is. 35. If you had the power to completely change one seemingly hopeless situation, what and where would it be?
Fatherless generations. A father should be the first to die, the first to serve, the first to repent, the first to forgive, the first to love, the first to show grace. Not the first to leave, not the first to run, not the first to hide at a bar, not the first to think choices don’t have consequences, not the first to think a flirtatious teenager at a bar actually wants to sleep with a stranger that night. Why do you think we so often look to God, yet also struggle with seeing Him, as God the Father? 36. After doing this experience, what would you say your life is all about?
Servant-leadership. 37. Has your experience challenged your faith in anyway?
Yes. End of answer. No, of course I’ll take the opportunity to express my opinion. When you see men with foot disorders, babies without fathers, same babies without mothers, can ony pray for adorable girls that have AIDS, prostituted women, malnourished children, decaying grins, toothless frowns, feces colored water, and homes made out of garbage located in the garbage your faith is tested. It sucks. It sucks almost as much that I become numb to it. It sucks that my life won’t change after this Race as much as it “should.” It sucks that I’ve forgotten the names of my students that I poured into for nearly a year while teaching in St. Louis. It sucks that I’ve seen so much, but apparently done so little. It sucks that all of my mental meanderings can’t come up with solutions to cure a community crisis let a continental one. It’s not-of-this world how amazing the truth is that despite us screwing this world up on our own, God still loves us.
E. Return to America 38. How hard does it feel to take up this culture with such new eyes? (i don't think you're going to mind the bathroom facilities, though!!!)
Because I’ve seen more, I know just that much more of how short I fall. I’m humbled. That’s hard at first, but sometimes it feels so right. 39. What will you do when you come across the first 'stupid' American who doesn't give a crap about anyone else? (haha)
My mommy likes to say, “I’m too blessed to be stressed.” I’ve got things way too good to let that bother me. (But if it does, I’ll probably try to have empathy, but it might hurt my eyes—and brain--trying to put on his lenses.) 40. What are the people in your group generally doing upon their return to the States?
Some are doing an apprenticeship with the World Race, so are going back out to squad leader future Races—let me address concerns now that the World Race is only about adding to their own numbers. They’re not. It’s so much bigger than that.—while some are managing worship/prayer centers, interning at churches, working as mechanics, retail stores, doing prep work for going into “the field” longer term, etc. 41. Does contentment have a new definition?
Yes. In the dictionary it’s somewhere near the word “simplify,” catty-corner to the sentiment of “stop complaining you’re better off than most the world,” and adjacent to “it’s not about me.” 42. Are you excited for Georgia???
Yes, more excited each day except when people tell me that there is nothing in the town. Mountains, soccer, and food and I’m pretty much good to go. I still have my tent and backpack… 43. What would you like prayer for as you return back to the States?
Specifically it’s in terms of going on Staff with the WR. I need to raise support, which I feel so much better about this time around, but it’s still Round 2. I do believe it’s an amazing opportunity to invest and partner in something great that’s going on, but it’s still Round 2, you know? I guess the prayer is not so much that the money will come in—that can sometimes border on “prosperity” preaching—more so that I will remain faithful and confident in what I feel like is the next thing.
F. Topics That Were Good But I Went for Humorous (Hopefully) Answers Instead. 44. After all the people you have met and the needs you have witnessed, how thick is your prayer journal?!!
What’s “prayer?” Actually, I journaled significantly less on the Race than I do at home. For me it’s because of the lack of consistent structure in my routine. 45. What is the funniest thing that happened on the race?
This isn’t the funniest, but I first thought of this game called “underwater basket weaving” or “Telephone Pictionary” or I’m sure there are other titles. The point is, you have to either draw the description that is passed to you, or describe the picture that is given to you. Let’s just say with a 30 second time limit, pictures can be misinterpreted leading to either more questionable proceedings. 46. Besides family/friends, what have you missed most while away? Why?
Couches 47. The country with the warmest people?
Ukraine. Temperatures hit 120 degrees. (Get it?) Actually, Ukrainians were much friendly than I thought they would be based on the impression television and movies had given me. 48. Will you grab a beer with me?
Only one? 49. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Six inches taller, six pack better, but 517 hairs lighter. (The following might be the scariest thing I’ve ever written.) I can actually see myself in Gainesville, GA—where I’m moving in about a month—serving, leading, and doing something that is a challenge, is difficult, but I enjoy tackling. Whew, commitment. I’m not used to it. 50. What surprised you the most about yourself during this journey?
My verboseness. (And wit.) ((And humility.))
G. Advice 51. What is the most important advice you can give me as someone who has never a) been on a mission trip that lasted more than a week and b) ever backpacked?
Be yourself and be honest. It’s going to come out eventually. If you’ve never backpacked, I would advise you buy a backpack. 52. What is the one item you wish you would have brought with you that you didn't?
I can’t think of anything. 53. Is there something you brought that you wish you would have left at home?
I actually mailed home a belt, second pair of jeans, “stay warm” long sleeve shirt, and camping stove. I might have packed less shirts the second time around because it’s fun to pick up cheap clothing while traveling. You can’t do that if your bag is already packed to the brim. 54. Since all of us, your readers, probably will never take or have the time to do what you have done; how can we serve God and learn more about HIM and His character right where we are?
Weston’s Stateside World Race:
Forgive the people in your life that you absolutely do not want to.
Be willing to be awkward and tell your best friends that you love them, why you love them, and what they should change because you love them.
Break down the mental barrier that categorizes the day into: work, leisure time, ministry time, and God’s time.
Find ten things you have that you want, but you don’t need. Get rid of them.
Read Luke 10, be silent, pray, keep being silent, and do what you are hearing/thinking/feeling.
Answer the question, “What’s one thing I know God would want me to do, but I don’t want to?” Now go do it.
55. As Moses, Joshua and Paul were finishing their time as leaders, they each gave a farewell address (letter in Paul's case). In these farewell thoughts, they recounted to those that they had led reminders of God's faithfulness and character. These Biblical leaders also left those that remained with a charge. What charge would you give to a new generation of leaders?
“You, leaders. Turn around. See all those people following you? Yep, they’re following you. You, God’s righteous son. One of God’s gifted, talented, and beloved children. Now turn around. Who are you following? (I wouldn’t say this in the address, but to avoid confusion, the answer is “God.”) Keep it that way.”
Reader’s Score: Look at the scoring chart below to see what type of blog reader you are. Scores based on the number of questions read out of 55.
50-55 Send me your address so I can mail birthday and Christmas gifts.
45-49 Why didn’t you just read them all? You were close.
40-44 Honestly, probably better than I would have done.
35-39 The “Deep” ones were kind of boring, huh?
30-34 You think reading is tiring? I wrote these all in one sitting.
25-29 At least you didn’t get a 15-24.
20-24 (See below)
15-19 (See above)
10-14 I’ll assume you’re going to scroll up and improve your score now.
5-9 Second to last nobody remembers, but…
0-4 Last place!? Thank you so much for even reading a single word.
YOU ARE ALL AMAZING! THANKS FOR BEING A PART A YEAR THAT UNDOUBTEDLY RANKS IN MY TOP 25 YEARS OF LIFE.
(This isn’t another “year in conclusion” blog, I promise.) I have arrived home to hug and kiss my family, new nephew, and the family dachshunds. Yes, my mom not only cooked bacon for me that first morning home, but has prepared this pig delicacy twice since as well.
There is the saying, “Mother knows best.” While the infallibility of my mother would be a short debate, she certainly gets things right every once in a while. Since I touched plush carpet, a queen size bed, and padded toilet seats four days ago she’s been encouraging me to share that (a) I’m home, and (b) what I’m doing next. Personally, I’m honored if you are still reading my blogs. I feel like I’ve shot, kicked, and body slammed a dead horse already with my “endofrace” meanderings, so thank you for your interest, even if it is feigned.
So what’s next? Starting in early November I will be going on staff with the World Race as their Brand Manager, which will require me to move to Gainesville, GA. (I’m excited about one of these facts more than the other. Can you guess which?) In short, my responsibilities will include communicating the vision of the World Race to the marketing department, overseeing the continued development and growth of people’s awareness and knowledge of the World Race, and advocating for the expansion of a movement that is currently gaining momentum. (If you’re like me, you’re thinking, “Wow, those are some important-sounding, superfluous words in that self-written job description.”) Here’s the back story.
I felt convicted a year ago to not think about after the Race until I returned home because I had determined that I had never truly trusted God with anything in my life before. I always had a backup. Always had a safety net. For this reason, I intentionally did not think about my occupation for the first nine months of the Race. Then “the phone call.” My future boss called—Skype is amazing—and offered me a position that at the time didn’t have a name, didn’t have a specific description, didn’t have any other takers but it did promise to be quite a challenge and leadership had confirmed that I was the one for the job. I asked her about necessary strengths to which she responded, “Someone who is a self-starter, takes initiative and gets things done. Someone who can help us define our vision, how best to communicate it, and then make a strategy to get that done. I want someone who understands the WR, represents the WR well, and honestly believes in the WR.” White flag. Throw in the towel. You got me.
As I began to meticulously weigh the positives, the developing portrait was breath-taking. I will get to be a part of the World Race community, near mountains, close to Atlanta, in a position that will challenge me, there’s room for me to define my role, in close proximity to where I went to college, a recipient of more leadership training, and there’s even local soccer leagues.
Really, the only significant downfall is the pay. While my tax bracket would skyrocket from my missionary pay, it’s a significant cut even from my first year teaching salary. My annual salary will be $25,000 with 50% being covered by the World Race and 50% from raising support. I trusted that a position for after the Race would arise, and it did. I whole-heartedly trust that by taking this next step I’m walking in obedience, and I also believe that God allows his children to be a blessing to each other in the church body.
I might be breaking protocols from Support Raising 101, but I don’t see the need to lay out persuasions like, “all I need are 20 people to each support me $50/month,” or “Wanted: Recent lottery winner with compassionate heart.” (Both of those are accurate though.) The bottom line is that I believe more than ever that the vision, not just the 11 month program, of the World Race can literally change the world. I earnestly want to build relationships with supporters that would like to partner with me in seeing the World Race, which is in its baby stages, grow into a mature embodiment of the church, which—just like every person—is called to bring the kingdom of God to the nations, including our own.
My heart is to serve, but that usually doesn’t pay well. If you are at all interested in supporting me, I would absolute love to talk with you either over the phone (my cell is 412-849-5705) or in person (I’m finally back.) My email address is westonbelkot@gmail.com. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. I don’t mind talking/writing about what God’s doing in my life and those around me, if you hadn’t noticed.
PS: I haven’t forgotten about the questions you wrote in your comments. I hope to post the answers in the next blog. Thanks again.
Preface: The proceeding is my final analysis of the Race, and it’s more of an essay than a blog. I have tried to encapsulate the last eleven months of my life into a piece of writing that not only can hopefully put into words what I intangibly feel within me for your understanding, but also for me to look back on in the future when I ask myself the question, “How was the trip?” While it may appear to be more literature in nature at points, I assure you that the comparisons and analysis seem to me not only necessary but also more adequate than any of the blogs previously composed on their own merit. As a final precaution, I feel as though I’m attempting the unattainable. Mothers, how do you put into words the experience and feelings of childbirth? You make comparisons that inevitably fall short.
During my final days of ministry, I began reading the book Gulliver’s Travels, which is far more than a children’s tale of adventure. Specifically it’s a satire of English society centuries ago, but in general it’s a critique of different perspectives and allows for creative comparisons to whatever the reader categorizes as “home.” After finishing this book the day before I departed for Final Debrief, I knew it was the key to explaining this year abroad, after serving in cultures foreign compared to my normal, yet normal to those I see as foreign. For said reason, I am going to briefly summarize the classic adventures of Gulliver before entering into explanations of the story’s applicability to my Race. Gulliver’s Travels is divided into sections based upon the four countries that Gulliver became stranded upon. Each world was not intended to be merely an entertaining exploit, but a creation that brought to life quite normal human perspectives.
First, Gulliver enters the land of the Lilliputans who are mere hundredths his size. He is able to instill fear into criminals by feigning hunger, quench a raging fire with his urine, and seize an entire navy with his bare hands. In this land, nearly everything about Gulliver is superior. His perspective is the highest, and therefore the greatest, in the land.
In his second journey, the roles are entirely reversed. Gulliver is literally the same height as grass, and the natives are proportional to the landscape. In this country he is first put on display as a novelty for money, until he is purchased by the Queen. While he had intellect, agility, navigational skills, and musical gifting, nothing he did could earn the respect of his superiors. While nothing had changed about him physically, due to his abnormally large surroundings he was humbled in every sense of the word. Really, how important could the perspective and counsel be of someone who was nearly killed by rats, bees, a falling apple, and was carried away by a bird?
On his third voyage, Gulliver ends up in a country that has a floating island hovering above it. These people literally had their heads in the clouds, cared for little outside of mathematical and musical theory, and had to be struck in the face in order to take their attention off of themselves. While on this land, the author evaluates ancient, modern, and post-modern history coming to the unsaid conclusion that elitist advancement is pulling down society and its morals in the name of progress.
Lastly, Gulliver is abandoned on a land where horses are the superior beings in strength, morals, and intellect. On the contrary, humans, called Yahoos, are the most inferior beings known to exist. Lying and opinions don’t exist here, for what is of the greatest rational reason is always done. After three years of living with the horses, Gulliver is appalled by all Yahoos, who are known for their pride, greed, and selfishness. He easily associates these beasts with the citizens of his nativeEngland who start wars, practice corruption, and look out for their own well-being. It’s in this faraway land that Gulliver feels as though he has gained a new perspective on life that he only could have gained by being removed from humanity, and he believes that any attempts to express such a perspective to his peers would be futile. The story ends with Gulliver having to return to England against his desires. He is unable to re-enter English society because of his new perspective of the human race. Only after five years at home does he even allow his wife to sit on the far end of the dinner table with him.
In the afterword, the fictional author goes on to explain that the preceding account can’t be argued with for it is his story. It is his testimony of what happened to him, as unbelievable it may appear to be. What Gulliver experienced was life outside of the bubble he knew to be human existence, beyond his own world, beyond what people would believe, beyond what even his own mind would at one point have told him was true. Every place he visited was different, but he was always himself in every way. Nothing changed about him externally, merely—yet also more significantly—internal shifts were made.
I’ve realized throughout this Race that as compelling as books, such as Gulliver’s Travels, are they are nothing more than someone else’s stories. They lived it; I only read it. Throughout the World Race I was an author, not just literally by writing blogs, but figuratively as well. I didn’t just read about faith, hope, love, community, covenant, sacrifice, and surrender, but I lived it. The World Race is my story, my testimony. Keeping in mind the four adventures of Gulliver, I humbly recount for you Weston’s Travels.
I entered this Race with a subconscious belief of my superiority. I actually believed that I could changethings. Entering into Central America, where the people didn’t speak my language nor did they have financial backing or education to change that, I somehow fell to the thought that the American way is the better way in every way. We have good tools, clean water, education, etc. Here, I had something to offer. Here, I served with the first true man of faith I’ve ever gotten the privilege to know. He told his story selflessly and humbly, yet confidently. It was his story whether or not my upbringing valued or even conceded to the influence of demons and current usage of the spiritual gifts. Here, I wrestled with a question in my thoughts and felt, in an unexplainable way, the answer of “grace,” when I angrily asked God, “Why me?”
Entering Asia was like entering a world surprisingly foreign. The language was undecipherable and, therefore, unpronounceable. The population was virtually entirely Buddhist with a 2% Christian flicker that burned hot. Here, more than anywhere else, they asked questions about America beyond the surface topics of music, food, and fun. My answers were generic, inadequate, and stale. Here was a culture that valued the head both for its intellectual function and saw it as the most sacred part of the body. Here, I saw a man weep over the thought of grace. Here, I heard about current and targeted genocide that previously to me had been unknown, unheard of, and unbelievable. Here I saw that the church was not just an Americanism. What I did here was the most humbling. I cut trees, played soccer, and entertained kids.
While in Africa I failed to describe the continent in my blogs due to the lack of comparisons. (What other city does one compare Venice to?) It seemed as though everything there was louder, dirtier, and prouder. The land more populated, the people more in your face, and the Christianity more obvious. As missionaries we flew in with our tattoos, bracelets, and mohawks into a conservative culture that has stigmatized all those accessories. Here, American churches would be put to shame in terms of the worship, the prayer, and the passion of the congregation. Simultaneously, though, I saw things that were wrong, that were inappropriate, and that were witchcraft. I saw truth twisted and prosperity idolized, yet I left this continent humbled. Although nothing about me physically had changed, I felt small, but not in a bad way. Oddly enough, small seemed like just the right size.
Finally, some of my time in Eastern European villages actually kept coming to mind as I was reading the fourth part of Gulliver’s Travels. Here, families lived together and communities knew and helped their neighbors. The villagers were self-sufficient and pursued God by dedicating their whole life—not just part—to God’s service. Here, I realized that I had less and less to say as the Race went on, let alone the ability to change things on my own strength. Even some of the tasks I helped with, digging and preaching, they could either do better than me or I at least needed their help. Here, I saw simplicity reign over the complexities and materialism of the West. Here, I read Gulliver’s Travels and I have to wonder if reading this book during this one particular week in my life was coincidence? But now when I wonder, I lean more towards belief than amiable speculation.
As I return home, I do not intend, nor desire, to isolate myself from the Yahoos. While possibly an over-the-top finish, Gulliver’s reaction to normal life isn’t such a stretch. It’s comparable to anyone who knows that this world is not our home. That a greater place of rest, rejoicing, and restoration remains in waiting for us. While Gulliver’s return was done in despair and disgust, I desire to return with a banner of hope, love, and faith, for while the paths of me and our famous sailor oftentimes converged throughout our journeys, this is where we diverge and I divulge the point of this post.
Unlike Gulliver, throughout this whole year, I had the opportunity to live in a wall-less church whose only limit was itself. Denominational protocols were absent, decisions were made based on the Spirit’s leading, corrections were dealt with in love, and members were encouraged and built up. It’s a church that you don’t want to leave out of reluctance that a comparable one wouldn’t be found. That leaving would cause you to be alone, not physically, but emotionally unable to be surrounded by others who would understand what you’ve been through. That leaving would mean you’d have to figure out how to explain the perspective that you are chasing, pursuing, with the hope of one day grasping.
There are more cultures to explore and experience, as there are more perspectives to acquire. But no matter the length or zeal of the chase, in the end I’m limited. I can go around the world over and over again, discover and experience new cultures and revelations, but I’ll always be a Yahoo--in human eyes. In human eyes, I’ll be a wretch, a sinner, and an imperfection, but that’s not how God sees me. In all the lands in all the worlds that I could be stranded on, one perspective remains superior to all. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, God sees me as righteous. Because of grace, I have authority, walk in freedom, and am loved. Therein lies the remainder of my Race. My pursuit is to shift my perspective to see myself, and others, as God sees us: children that He loves.
Sounds pretty simple and cliché when you read it, huh? I humbly ask, though, that you remember that I wrote it. It’s my story, and, after all, it did take me eleven months to write.
Not sure if you noticed, but Christmas is nearly here. I look out the window and I see gravel. No snow (yet), but that’s Georgia. 
That’s how close I was to writing a blog entitled something like, “The Appeal,” which would have included such helpful, well…appeals to mankind such as “Please don’t walk by that piece of paper on the ground without picking it up. Create times each day to live how mankind did for most of the world’s existence: no Internet, TV, or air conditioning. Value the person’s time trying to turn out of the parking lot more than your own. It was going to end with a witty call-to-action like, “Please. Create. Value.” 
'Twas the night before the Super Bowl, when all through cheese head state
Now walking behind her, in front of them all!"
Some maintain integrity in their offices when compromising would be easier and more financially beneficial, some teach kids responsibility and respect through English, Science, and Math curriculums, and some maintain a home environment that is conducive to growth. 
While working on a project recently it was explained to me that there are always three factors to consider—time, money, and quality—and you can’t have all three. 
Please note that you are under no obligation to read the following exhaustive list of answers to the questions I received. It’s really long, but it is thorough, organized, and categorized for your convenience and, I think, pretty darn interesting. Thank you for all the questions, and I did my best to combine questions that were similar in nature. The answers are in the following order starting with the phrase, “Questions about…”
(This isn’t another “year in conclusion” blog, I promise.) I have arrived home to hug and kiss my family, new nephew, and the family dachshunds. Yes, my mom not only cooked bacon for me that first morning home, but has prepared this pig delicacy twice since as well. 
I felt convicted a year ago to not think about after the Race until I returned home because I had determined that I had never truly trusted God with anything in my life before. I always had a backup. Always had a safety net. For this reason, I intentionally did not think about my occupation for the first nine months of the Race. Then “the phone call.” My future boss called—Skype is amazing—and offered me a position that at the time didn’t have a name, didn’t have a specific description, didn’t have any other takers but it did promise to be quite a challenge and leadership had confirmed that I was the one for the job. I asked her about necessary strengths to which she responded, “Someone who is a self-starter, takes initiative and gets things done. Someone who can help us define our vision, how best to communicate it, and then make a strategy to get that done. I want someone who understands the WR, represents the WR well, and honestly believes in the WR.” White flag. Throw in the towel. You got me.
As I began to meticulously weigh the positives, the developing portrait was breath-taking. I will get to be a part of the World Race community, near mountains, close to Atlanta, in a position that will challenge me, there’s room for me to define my role, in close proximity to where I went to college, a recipient of more leadership training, and there’s even local soccer leagues. 
the World Race, which is in its baby stages, grow into a mature embodiment of the church, which—just like every person—is called to bring the kingdom of God to the nations, including our own. 
Preface: The proceeding is my final analysis of the Race, and it’s more of an essay than a blog. I have tried to encapsulate the last eleven months of my life into a piece of writing that not only can hopefully put into words what I intangibly feel within me for your understanding, but also for me to look back on in the future when I ask myself the question, “How was the trip?” While it may appear to be more literature in nature at points, I assure you that the comparisons and analysis seem to me not only necessary but also more adequate than any of the blogs previously composed on their own merit. As a final precaution, I feel as though I’m attempting the unattainable. Mothers, how do you put into words the experience and feelings of childbirth? You make comparisons that inevitably fall short.
On his third voyage, Gulliver ends up in a country that has a floating island hovering above it. These people literally had their heads in the clouds, cared for little outside of mathematical and musical theory, and had to be struck in the face in order to take their attention off of themselves. While on this land, the author evaluates ancient, modern, and post-modern history coming to the unsaid conclusion that elitist advancement is pulling down society and its morals in the name of progress. 
their pride, greed, and selfishness. He easily associates these beasts with the citizens of his nativeEngland who start wars, practice corruption, and look out for their own well-being. It’s in this faraway land that Gulliver feels as though he has gained a new perspective on life that he only could have gained by being removed from humanity, and he believes that any attempts to express such a perspective to his peers would be futile. The story ends with Gulliver having to return to England against his desires. He is unable to re-enter English society because of his new perspective of the human race. Only after five years at home does he even allow his wife to sit on the far end of the dinner table with him. 
In the afterword, the fictional author goes on to explain that the preceding account can’t be argued with for it is his story. It is his testimony of what happened to him, as unbelievable it may appear to be. What Gulliver experienced was life outside of the bubble he knew to be human existence, beyond his own world, beyond what people would believe, beyond what even his own mind would at one point have told him was true. Every place he visited was different, but he was always himself in every way. Nothing changed about him externally, merely—yet also more significantly—internal shifts were made. 
I entered this Race with a subconscious belief of my superiority. I actually believed that I could changethings. Entering into Central America, where the people didn’t speak my language nor did they have financial backing or education to change that, I somehow fell to the thought that the American way is the better way in every way. We have good tools, clean water, education, etc. Here, I had something to offer. Here, I served with the first true man of faith I’ve ever gotten the privilege to know. He told his story selflessly and humbly, yet confidently. It was his story whether or not my upbringing valued or even conceded to the influence of demons and current usage of the spiritual gifts. Here, I wrestled with a question in my thoughts and felt, in an unexplainable way, the answer of “grace,” when I angrily asked God, “Why me?” 
Entering Asia was like entering a world surprisingly foreign. The language was undecipherable and, therefore, unpronounceable. The population was virtually entirely Buddhist with a 2% Christian flicker that burned hot. Here, more than anywhere else, they asked questions about America beyond the surface topics of music, food, and fun. My answers were generic, inadequate, and stale. Here was a culture that valued the head both for its intellectual function and saw it as the most sacred part of the body. Here, I saw a man weep over the thought of grace. Here, I heard about current and targeted genocide that previously to me had been unknown, unheard of, and unbelievable. Here I saw that the church was not just an Americanism. What I did here was the most humbling. I cut trees, played soccer, and entertained kids. 
While Gulliver’s return was done in despair and disgust, I desire to return with a banner of hope, love, and faith, for while the paths of me and our famous sailor oftentimes converged throughout our journeys, this is where we diverge and I divulge the point of this post.
I can go around the world over and over again, discover and experience new cultures and revelations, but I’ll always be a Yahoo--in human eyes. In human eyes, I’ll be a wretch, a sinner, and an imperfection, but that’s not how God sees me. In all the lands in all the worlds that I could be stranded on, one perspective remains superior to all. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, God sees me as righteous. Because of grace, I have authority, walk in freedom, and am loved. Therein lies the remainder of my Race. My pursuit is to shift my perspective to see myself, and others, as God sees us: children that He loves. 