Building the Plane as We Fly It

by Karis Martin, 6-Month Africa IMMERSION team member

"We build the plane as we fly it."

This concept was foreign to me upon first arriving in Africa. I remember being completely perplexed the first time heard it. I am a planner. I like to have a schedule and a to-do list. I love the fulfillment of getting things done and feeling accomplished. My American mindset is always go, go, go.

The African mindset is completely different. Community and relationships are always put first. I have spent hours at kitchen tables long after we have eaten, simply talking and building relationships. There is no rush, no hurry. People are always more important here.

Throughout this entire journey I have learned the concept of being instead of doing. Our trip has not been about what tasks we can accomplish for the people here in Africa, but instead building relationships with them. To come alongside and love them like Jesus does. To eat their food, to miserably fail at speaking their language, and to live life as they do. This is what IMMERSION is all about.

Often times we had no plans for the day or the ones we did have were completely thrown out the window. Building the plane as we fly it sometimes looked like holding babies all day when we were supposed to be building a playground. Or spending several hours at the local market talking with our market friends instead of cooking dinner. Our time has never been focused on the things we can accomplish but rather the relationships we can build.

With less than 2 weeks left until I return home I realize how important relationships are and something I pray will continue to be my number one priority. I am so thankful for each and every person I have met during this journey and they will forever hold a special place in my heart.

In regards to my plans on what I will be doing when I return home my answer is "I am building the plane as I fly it." I have no plans and no schedule...and I have learned that is ok. I am trusting that God will open up doors and opportunities just as He has so faithfully done over the past 6 months. I am beyond thankful for this journey cannot express how grateful I am for the continued prayers and support from those back home. I look forward to sitting down and sharing the many wonderful, funny, and crazy stories with you all.

The girls and our babies outside by the finished playground.

Tata — one of our favorite market friends.

A piece of my heart will forever be left in the sand dunes of Namibia.

You must have a group size of at least 6 members to join this trip. Please view the Small Team trips or call our Servicing Department for more options at 888-475-6414.

View Small Team Trips

For most trips, you must have a group size of at least 6 members. Please view the Small Teams tab on each Community page or call our Servicing Department for more options at 888-475-6414.