The artist Bob Ross was famous for saying we don’t make mistakes; we just have happy accidents. I’m not sure if this is completely true, but it does have some connection to the last event we did for Ft. Bragg Soldiers preparing to deploy overseas.
A few weeks ago, when a fishing trip scheduled for Chaplain Peter Adams and five Soldiers fell through, we had to step back and consider other options. Everyone was disappointed, but we kept prayerfully mulling over what we could do outside of cancelling. Instead of hosting a fishing trip for a few guys in Hyde Co., we decided to sponsor a float trip down the Cape Fear River for a larger group that included spouses. We contacted a local company that specializes in this type of event, along with a restaurant near the river, and what transpired went beyond our original hopes.
Instead of serving a half a dozen men, we were able to host almost two dozen Soldiers and spouses. Chaplain Adams texted that the change of plans enabled him to get to know spouses who don’t normally show up at his events. Because a float trip appealed to those wives, now they will feel comfortable reaching out to their chaplain for help when their husbands are deployed. What seemed like a possible mistake turned into an incredible ministry opportunity.
I know we say this over and over, but it bears repeating over and over: thank you for supporting the mission of Operation Resolute. Without your partnership OR could not provide these events for chaplains who are tasked with caring for our warriors and their family members. The float trip was not an end unto itself. It was an avenue that provided relational connections that have the potential to save marriages and possibly lives.
As the OR team gears up for a busy fall season, please continue to help us lean into the work of serving those who sacrifice. Your support makes a difference.
