As the year comes to an end, I’m reminded to look back and thank God for all He has blessed me with. 2019 was definitely a year to remember, but I wanted time take some time to write about 2018- the year that opened my eyes to the world around me and taught me to lean on God in hard times.
2018 was probably the most life changing time in my life, mostly because of the opportunity I had to study abroad in Spain. I met people from all around the world who I still consider some of my best friends, and I learned the importance of trusting Gods plan instead of my own. Whenever I talk about how great my experience in Spain was people probably assume I’m referring to our daily beach trips and endless supply of gelato. Although those were both great, what really made studying abroad amazing was the relationships I formed and the memories we made. The best memories were the ones that seemed chaotic in the moment. Getting stranded in an airport for 8 hours, getting locked out of our rooms and forced to camp out in hall, and those crowded bus rides home from the city centre. Yup- if you’re part of our AFS familia you know what I’m talking about. But I wouldn’t change any of that for the world. Being in Spain was the first time I had to depend on myself (this was a struggle growing up with 2 older sisters and basically relying on them for everything lol). I had expectations of what my trip would encompass and soon after arriving in Spain my friends and I realized it was nothing like we prepared for. Prior to that trip I prayed constantly and specifically asked God that I would become close with 3 people on that trip. Little did I know I would leave Spain with 3 new best friends (Alexa, Jade, & George I love you guys). I found this prayer request in one of my journals months after coming home from Spain and I was overwhelmed with joy.
God shows himself in crazy ways, and even though it may not seem like a big deal to anyone else I was amazed by His grace. One day we were exploring the dorms and we took a wrong turn and found a staircase that looked like it went to a roof… so of course we followed it. Somehow we needed up in a little chapel that was part of the building. From that day on, my friend Alexa and I would go there basically everyday. Some of our best conversations took place in that chapel with mi amigos.
At this point you might be wondering where I’m going with this or how it relates to the World Race. Returning home from Spain two summers ago I knew that was just the beginning. Although it wasn’t a Christian organization, I definitely grew in my faith and I am proud to say I impacted others by showing them God’s love. That experience opened my eyes to the world around me and exposed me to other cultures. I know I’m being called to travel around the globe and share God’s love with everyone I meet.
I can’t wait to start this adventure with my Route 3 fam!! I’ve got the chance to talk to my team and I couldn’t be more thankful for how close we already are! I also want to thank everyone who’s supported me so far. I’m SO thankful for your support and truly couldn’t do this without you. In order to go on the race I need to fundraise $16,000 so if you can support me financially I would appreciate it so so much! I’m currently selling tee shirts ($25) and bracelets ($15)… message me with any questions! Thank you again and happy holidays everyone!
Becca this beautiful blog brought tears to my eyes. You are extremely special, caring and loving. You have grown so much (emotionally) in a short time. You have matured right before my eyes. Your caring soul is evident in the way you love and care for others especially in your interactions with Alessia. It is evident you are made for this and will grow even more through this experience. Even though I will worry and miss you, you will accomplish wonderful things with your caring gift! I’m so proud of you and honored to call you my daughter! Xo
Love you so much!! Thank you!!??