Building our RAFT

One of the most important ideas I have taken away from our time at PFO is that how you leave a place greatly impacts how you enter a new place. As I think about leaving Virginia, my family, my friends... I would be lying to say that it is without sadness. This is a bitter-sweet adventure, one in which Jarrod and I can look ahead and get excited about all the possibilities - but also that means leaving very important people behind. At PFO we were instructed that as we think about leaving well, to build our RAFT: Reconciliation, Affirmation, Farewell, Think& Talk. We were exhorted to reconcile any differences with others prior to leaving, take the time to say thanks and words of love that have gone unsaid, be intentional about saying goodbye and not leaving it until the last minute, and then to share expectations and what it will be like where we are going with others. Taking these steps empower us to leave without fear, anxiety, regret, or turmoil with relationships undone while walking ahead into an unknown future.

Since we've been at PFO, I have been much more intentional to "say what needs to be said" to loved ones, letting them know they are special to me, specific things I appreciate about them, etc -- and afterwards, I can't help but wonder what took me so long! Hebrews 10:24 says, "Let us continue to consider how to spur one another on in love and good deeds. " We are exhorted to spur one another on to love one another and do what is right... and how special it is to share with another what you see them already doing and how you appreciate their efforts, so as to encourage them all the more! As I have been taking the time to "build my raft", I have seen relationships grow sweeter and more intentional as a result.

Pictures of various "RAFT building" get togethers from the past week :)
4th of July Cole/Mayer Family Beach Vacation, Topsail North Carolina

The best advice I can give is to take time now to build your RAFT... don't wait until you are leaving those you love. Be intentional... what an incredible blessing you will find that you have both given and received!