Warning: NERD ALERT! This blog is going to give you a glimpse into the nerdier side of me 🙂
Something I’ve really enjoyed in recent years with my parents is watching the show ‘The Crown.’ If you’ve never heard of it, it is a historical drama that chronicles the life of the late Queen Elizabeth and the rest of the royal family. It can get a bit dicey, but I believe it is a pretty accurate reflection of their personal lives and the unwanted burden it is to be born royal.
In the most recent season, the queen is getting older and life around her is really difficult. A beautiful analogy is created between Queen Elizabeth and the royal yacht Britannia. The ship was commissioned in 1954 and if you trace the journey of the ship, you can clearly see the life and adventures of Elizabeth herself. Her relationship with Britannia and her relationship with the crown go hand in hand. Once, she called Britannia, “a floating, seagoing expression of me.” Unlike monarchs before her, Elizabeth was involved in intimate details of making this ship her own; down to paint colors and woodwork. Britannia took the royal family back and forth to their summer home in Scotland, carried newly-married royals to their honeymoons in other countries, and even hosted Ronald Reagan, Nelson Mandela, Winston Churchill, and several others. When the cost of maintenance and necessary repairs became too much, Britannia was decommissioned as the official ship of the royal family. In 1997, Elizabeth and Charles waved goodbye to their home on the sea with tears of reminiscence.
During her speech commissioning the ship, just a few months after her coronation, Elizabeth famously said, ““I hope this brand-new vessel, like your brand-new queen, will prove to be dependable and constant, capable of weathering any storm.”
You’re probably wondering where I’m going with this history lesson. When I think back over my time with my previous team, SDR, and serving as their team leader, the relationship between Elizabeth and Britannia came to my mind. Stepping into a brand new role, one that carries a lot of responsibility, along with joining a brand new team was honestly a lot for me to handle. I wanted to keep this team afloat and prove to myself and to my squad that I could steer this ship with grace and confidence.
I’ve learned so much about myself and about my God from the of adventure serving as team leader. This ship has become a home to me. I have poured my heart into it and am sad to see it retired, and my role with it. It has been a high honor to give out of the overflow of my relationship with God and to be surrounded by such amazing women. I have learned what it looks like to be an introverted and gentle leader. I have learned how to approach the throne of grace with confidence. I have learned that I can do nothing without Him who strengthens me.
The ship that SDR has become is a ship full of dreams for the future, courage to step into the unknown, true friendship, and one that is capable of weathering the roughest of storms.
Maggie, Mikahla, Olivia, Kirsten, and Lexy,
You have spurred on my sanctification, shown me where I’ve looked like Jesus and also where I haven’t, made me laugh, pushed me towards discipline, and walked beside me through it all. I am so proud of this ship and how we’ve sailed through a myriad of seasons. While it is sad to say goodbye to this team and to this role of team leader, I can’t imagine sailing a different ship. It has been an absolute blessing to build this ship with you from the ground up. You are my shining stars.
Polaris, Halley’s Comet, Orion, Pegasus, and Andromeda, I love you.
Love, Carol
I have now stepped into the role of storyteller! I am thrilled for this new season. P squad made it to the Middle East!!! Time is flying. 90 days until I’m home! More blogs to come!
Love you, Carol, and thank you for your loving and humble leadership and friendship. I’m grateful for the chance to live life with you, and so excited for you to step into this role!
May the lord continue to grow and nurture you as his vessel for his kingdom! I cannot believe you only have 90 days left!
Only eternity will show the results of your endeavors during this amazing world race. We should all be as willing to share our faith as you and your team have done since last August. Blessings to you and all of your partners.
I loved your analogy!
Caroline, the courage you have shown and the challenges you have faced are heart-lifting. Interrupting your life to do what you are doing is so commendable and inspiring. You have been faithful in your mission. Don’t you just know your Lord is looking at you and thinking, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Prayers for the final stage of this journey. (I feel sure you have more journeys to come.)
Caroline what and awesome experience….one that will change the trajectory of your life! I can’t imagine the memories! I hope you will be able to see the fruit of your efforts…so many seeds planted! I look forward to seeing what God has in store for you after you return! Love and prayers!
How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news…your creative eloquence in sharing and loving transparency is none less than a reflection of your beautiful heart 💜 May God continue to resonate peace, protection, and power through you and your incredible team!!🙏
What an honor it is to be your friend. I’m blessed to have had such an amazing example of what it is to lead a team well. I love your heart and I love our friendship!! Love you Carol!!
Honored to be your star ship! Miss you so much Caroline!!!!! I thank God for the best team lead and the best story teller!
You have constantly been in my thoughts and prayers. I have been keeping up with you when I see your parents. You are such a special young lady to me and I am so happy for you that you are getting this experience. I’m looking forward to seeing you when you get home.
May God continue to bless you on your journey..
Love Miss Sara
Oh my, amazing! Thank you so much for sharing this adventure that our Father has guided you on. May you and your group continue to grow and share all He is! Love you.