Destin, FL - April 2024
- Cultural Compass
- Apr 23
- 4 min read
Contributor: Wyatt Thompson
Leaving Flagstaff, we knew that the final excursion would be bittersweet. We were thrilled to see each other one last time. On the morning of April 23, 2024, we were excited to see each other at the airport and spend five sweet days together on the Panhandle of Florida.
Leading through Feeding – Planning for Physical Needs
When contemplating the team on which I wanted to serve for the Destin Excursion, I was looking to lead in a new capacity. I liked the idea of serving on the Catering Team because I love to cook and wanted to share my recipes with my peers. I was paired with one other friend and we collaborated to create a menu and grocery list. In addition, groups of three students were rotated into the schedule to help prepare, cook, and clean.
We had the challenge of planning meals that were appealing to everyone and yet could be prepared for nineteen people in a short amount of time. We planned to buy and eat traditional breakfast foods, various snacks, and ice cream.
We also planned on cooking special dishes for certain meals. For breakfast one morning, we prepared a tater tot breakfast casserole. For lunch one day, we prepared sloppy joes with tater tots. For dinner one night, we prepared taco soup. Each of these turned out to be a huge success in flavor and in efficiency. Through the experiences of planning, shopping, and cooking, I learned how I can maximize my time in the kitchen.
Ody Life on the Emerald Coast
In Destin, we took it very slow so that we could savor the final moments of the school year together. On the day we arrived, some of us went to East Pass Coffee Co. as we waited for our peers to arrive. This was a nice place to stop after coming from the airport.
On the second day, we had a lovely beach day. We were given the freedom to do whatever we wanted – we could sit on the beach or walk along the shore (accompanied by other peers). One person even brought a kite, which was so much fun to learn and fly.
On the third day, we went to Harborwalk Village for dinner at Tailfins Waterfront Grill and shopping. Although it is small, this entertainment district is actually a lot of fun to visit. It is decorated very nicely and has beautiful views, especially at sunset.
On the last day, we revisited the beach and Harborwalk Village. Each of us appreciated this because we wanted more time in both places. At Harborwalk Village, we took a Dolphin Cruise at sunset. The views of the water at sunset combined with seeing the dolphins in their natural habitat was an amazing choice for a final activity.
The Peer Dynamic – The Commissioning of the Community
For our time in Destin, we each wanted to make the most out of our last moments together in person. When we went to the beach, we naturally broke off into groups; some swam in the Gulf of Mexico, while others flew a kite or sat in the sun. When we were at the house, we laughed, talked, and swam in the pool. But the last night was truly amazing.
After returning from the Dolphin Cruise, we gathered together in the living room to reflect and reminisce on the amazing year we enjoyed together. Many of us shared testimonies of what God revealed to us and our personal growth over the school year from the first text message to the final excursion.
The Lord stretched us and challenged us in a variety of ways and we agreed that we experienced authentic Christian community.
The next morning was even more impactful. Some of us had early flights, necessitating a 4:30 A.M. wakeup call. I decided to wake up at that time to make sure I said a final goodbye to everyone. When I walked out of my room, I was amazed to see that each and every one of us was gathered in the hallway to spend the last few moments together. We all walked the first group of students to the car and the rest of us waited until the last possible second to go back in the house. This was true friendship in action.
Final Thoughts
The Destin Excursion was an amazing trip filled with incredible memories and skills learned. Having the opportunity to lead in another capacity challenged me to serve in a unique and satisfying way. Planning food for nineteen people, I was challenged to use recipes that were easy to make in large portions. Collaborating with my teammate and a rotating group of three peers simplified the preparing, cooking, and cleaning.
The community that formed over the course of the year was fundamental to my spiritual growth. Spending time at the beach swimming, walking around, and taking in the views with my friends was a beautiful experience. Even going to Harborwalk Village twice was exciting. The Dolphin Cruise was impressive between the gorgeous sunset and playful dolphins. But the most amazing parts of the excursion were the final gathering in the living room and the morning sendoff.
This was an incredible way to end the year and I am so grateful to have spent my Freshman Year of college with such a godly group of peers and mentors.
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