Learning.

First off, I must apologize for not blogging recently. It's been difficult balancing tour life and taking advantage of wifi when we do have it. 

We are currently in Nashville having some time off. It's been great thus far!

Now let's talk. 

A question that most often is asked along tour is "Well, what have you learned so far?"

What a loaded question! To walk away saying I've learned only one thing would mean I haven't fully experienced or taken the time to experience what is going on around me. 

taken the time. 

This sounds like a simple statement, but there's much to it.

There's a willingness to be open

a willingness to listen

a willingness to let go of comfort and take risk

a willingness to be honest

a willingness to give up your time and what you want to do to cater to something or someone else. 

Years ago when I was working at the café, a homeless man and I spent the evening talking. Right before we parted ways he said, " If you leave a conversation not learning anything, you haven't spent enough time with them."

That hit so hard. 

It's been a statement I've tried to live out in all conversations and situations. With tour, I've become overwhelmed with the amount I've learned knowing I still have so much more to learn and take from God, my team, complete strangers, friends, and family. 

Books and journals could be filled with what has taken place, but for now I'll give you a list of things I personally have taken from tour. Some of these things I have talked about and some I will expand on in the future.

• Expect the Unexpected
• There is joy in the pain
• Listen to the whisper and follow in obedience
• Take the time to reflect on the character of God through the qualities of nature
• The wind is like God. There are times you fight against it and times you let it guide you
• Accept Humility
• The desert is not a fun place
• Encouraging words can go a long way
• Generosity and Hospitality comes in many different shapes, sizes, and through various people
• A water hose can be a lifesaver
• Swarms of horseflies and bees teach you patience and also show you how easily frustrated you can get
• Put others before yourself always and be transformed through it
• Wake up, look in the mirror, remind yourself that God has created you with purpose and you are truly unique
• Take the time to get to know those around you. Be inspired from their life
• Listen to your body, if you are in pain, take rest and learn from it
• When your spirit gets low, remember your purpose, remember God, and consider your blessings
• Gratitude has a whole new meaning
• The first week of change is always difficult but after a while you get use to it and become stronger
• Angels exist
• People want to make a change, but often don't know how. Inspire them
• Not all Americans appreciate what tour is stands for, but that's okay, open their eyes and give them a new perspective outside of themselves
• Coffee is a must 24/7
• Some people don't know how to have a conversation. We've let technology get in the way of tangible communication. When you can, put your phone away and talk face to face
• Don't be afraid to explore you may find neat things
• Be proud of the awful bike tanlines 
• Share your heart when you can. You never know who is listening and who will walk away changed

That's all I've got for now! 

Tour ends in 2 weeks. so wild. 

Please keep us in your prayers! Love you all.