First Impressions

Journal Prompt

How was your first day? What stood out to you?

My Thoughts

The first day was a whirlwind but I learned a lot and somehow have gotten even more excited for the work ahead of us. The morning started with an escape-room-esque introduction with tons of clues and puzzles that would help us learn some valuable lessons in Leadership, Humility, and Flexibility. Mr. Garner later walked through the sequence of events from the morning and highlighted the lesson behind each small thing. What stood out to me the most was the intentionality of the leadership helping us to learn such valuable lessons for life but also specifically for the trip ahead. There were lots of practical simulations for experiences like airport travel and foreign environments and the preparation went beyond the practical and into the relational, spiritual and educational as well. Oh I also flipped a tire for the first time which was a whole experience, it really is a boot camp. We are being stretched and pressed physically and spiritually and I’m thankful for the teachings that come with it and the preparation it is bringing. Some words to sum up today: Hard-core, mind-bending, full of thanksgiving and excitement.