The honeymoon phase has come to an end, and reality has set in. When I decided to embark on my dream of the World Race, I had so many hopes and expectations. For example, I could not wait to travel around the world, try new foods, meet new people, and experience many adventures. I was not thinking about trials, hardships, and struggles that would inevitably come my way. I was not prepared for the struggles that many humans face in surviving day to day. I was not thinking about how much Covid would impact my trip, or how much I would miss America. Fortunately, the Race has far exceeded my expectations. This trip is so much more than traveling, meeting new people, and trying new foods. It is a challenging, taxing and demanding yet an extremely rewarding journey that I get to embark on with God. It is truly a bittersweet time in my life. Many days in which I am horribly homesick, overwhelmed and discouraged. I miss my family, friends, and dog. I miss hot showers and my own room. I wish everyone knew just how incredibly blessed we all are in America. Being a missionary is unbelievably hard, but it has opened my eyes to the world and shown me just how privileged I am to call America home. Throughout these difficult times, God has been there by my side He is The Constant in my life and the One I can fully rely on, no matter the circumstances. God has been so faithful to me in these past months. He is constantly reminding me that reward is so sweet, He sees everything and His love has no bounds.
I would encourage you all to continue keeping me in your prayers. I would like to specifically ask for prayer to persevere with joy. Please pray for those I am serving and working with. Thank you all so much for your love and encouragement. ??
Dear Claire ?? We are all here for you. In our daily thoughts our daily prayers and every Tuesday I know your ears are on fire. Soak this adventure in and promise yourself not to forget all that you see both positive and negative. We’re here if you ever need to chat
Your Mimi has her arms around u in spirit and prayer always and is so
Proud of u. Popi too
WOW Claire!! You truly took all of my thoughts/feelings and perfectly wrote about it in a blog!! SO grateful to know you and love you and to walk with you through the trials & the adventures
Love you young lady. So proud of you. I pray you will feel God’s presence Everyday and that as you touch others they will feel the touch of God through you. I pray that His strong arms will warn your soul and fill your heart with joy. ?? ?? love you
Claire I pray u can feel God’s presence in and around u. U are a strong woman of faith. God will continue to protect u!!
Hey sweet girl, Nan and Pops Love will always be with you. We are so proud of you and the work you are doing. God will protect you and give you the strength to do his work. We are looking forward to your return so we can give you a big hug.
Sweet Claire, your words are wonderful. I’m so proud of you and the work you’re doing. Sending prayers and much love.
You are laying up treasures in heaven, dear one. And remember when you serve, God stoops low to serve with you. He is changing you as you change the lives of others.
When you’re home, you will appreciate things that the rest of us take for granted. Your heart will break with compassion for those less fortunate while the rest of us have no idea. This is a temporary chapter in your life, and soon it will be over. But you will never be the same as long as you live. And just think of the long line in heaven waiting to personally thank you for making a difference in their lives!
I love that you shared your thoughts and feelings with the world! He has been so faithful and will be always. Praying for that joy and perseverance that can come only from Him. So proud of you and all the ways you have grown!
MISS YOU
Thanks for the blog. I love the positive way you have presented the reality of missionary travels. Getting to share you journey is a joy.
I loved getting to know you better in Swazi! What you stated in this blog is so true! The incredible abundance, wealth, and freedom we experience is unparralled in the world. Being exposed to people who live in poverty, having to make do, living on a tight budget, serving others, doing hard work and being far from home is so challenging. You have been stretched, and you’ve grown so much! You are positively impacting so many people – those you serve, your squad mates, and those back home reading your blogs. I’m so proud of you!