Training Camp

Hey friends & family! 

This is my first time touching base since arriving at training camp and let me tell you, it’s been harder than I anticipated. I did not want to let go of my family as we hugged for the last time in KCI airport. The heavy reality set in that we wouldn’t be together for sometime as I slowly lost them in the crowd, turning around every so often, to get one last glimpse as I walked through security. 

I made a beeline to my gate where I was greeted and met with instant comfort by my dear friend Eutiva, who was also flying to training camp. Upon arrival, I was welcomed by one of my squad leaders and a couple of my teammates. We loaded up and boarded the bus for Gainesville.

The first few days were tough to say the least. By day three, I was shattered in every way, and I think everyone can agree that they were too. Our endurance was tested with difficult scenarios, frigid weather, uncomfortable living conditions, and spiritual warfare.
Yet, with the tender and gracious love of Christ, our identities were developed back more grounded, resilient, and firm in our Lord Jesus.

Oh, yes. I also tested positive for the flu which took me out for a few days. There were two “Sick Rooms” which were isolated from the rest of the people. But since I have Lupus, which means I am immune compromised, my squad mentors/leaders felt it best I had a room to myself.  
Having a room completely to myself was both a blessing and a struggle but that’s a story for another time. 

The entire staff and serve Team at Adventures in Missions, Georgia is so caring. They always direct their works from the Lord and never take any compliments or praise for themselves. Solely giving the glory to God! 

The sermons we’ve heard have covered Evangelism, The Holy Spirit, Culture, Hearing the Lords voice, and so much more. We are impacted deeply and not held back from going too deep. And I feel so free when worshiping. I can strongly say it’s been my favorite part of it all. One of my squad members encouraged me to tap into my dance roots which I have buried so deep away. He said that the Lord doesn’t give a skill just to leave you resenting it. And if you remember, for a little context, I was a competitive dancer for most of my life and I felt like I never got closure for something so significant that gave me an identity.
And wow, how the Lord has used this in a form of a breakthrough.
I’m not saying I bust out pirouettes, but with free expression and movement I feel intertwined and closer with Christ.

Last night, our team was blessed by the community of aim with one last revival night, and it was like a glimpse of heaven.
What is revival night? Take worship + an insane amount of energy + passion. Our teams were spoken and prayed over and one specific word I will cherish forever was that we will bring Joy to very dark places in the world and that the Lord is smiling at us.

The Squad 

Our team consists of 11 total, 2 guys and 9 girls. And the team I am on has 6! Although, we all come from different backgrounds and walks of life, there’s this safe and familiar feeling I just can’t put my finger on. It’s almost like the Lord divinely and perfectly orchestrated the whole thing. 😉
1 Peter 2:4-6

Isaiah 55 is the Bible chapter that our squad leaders chose over our entire squad as our theme for the year!

My Team

My group chose Isaiah 52:7, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messengers who bring good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns!” because we named our team “Happy Feet.”

If all plans remain on track. My squad and I will be flying out Monday afternoon from Atlanta airport and we’ll arrive around 11pm in Guatemala!!!
(Update: We actually touched down in Guatemala around 12am, because of a delayed flight. But it perfectly worked out because we got to celebrate Bri’s 27th birthday (my squad leader) as we landed in Guatemala!!! After hopping on a bus and driving for two hours, we arrived at the Guatemala AIM Base!)


So if you’ve made it down to here, I like to wish you a sincerest thank you. A lot has transpired here in Gainesville, GA but bittersweetly this chapter comes to an end.
Love you all. God bless! 
– With love, Mazi