When our squad leaders revealed to us that we would be traveling to Turkey this summer, the thought never even crossed my mind that if this were to become our reality, I would get to spend my birthday in the least reached region of the world. Maybe I assumed that we’d continue with our pattern that kept us in each country for two months instead of one, but whatever the case, I was gifted the opportunity to celebrate another trip around the sun in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. 

Istanbul, Turkey. 

As if that wasn’t enough, the Father popped off all day. I promise I’ve never felt more seen by Him than I did on June 8, 2021. Lemme tell ya ‘bout it! 

Our morning kicked off pretty late due to our lack of rest in the previous day’s travel, but I woke up to a nice can of Turkish coffee ready to be brewed. Jacken, Justin, and I sipped our “mud” while I chatted with my mama, and then we set out for the day. 

On our way to lunch, we met a fella who escorted us to an establishment that he guaranteed would be the most delicious meal that we’d enjoy during our stint in the city. Y'all.. this man knew what he was talking about. First of all, the restaurant was tucked into an alleyway and was inhabited only by local Turks, so in appearance, it had won us over. We allowed our friend to order for us and we were thoroughly impressed.

Our meal was called a "Mixed Plate"

We’d agreed that if the restaurant met our expectations and we left satisfied, we would pay a visit to his “family’s” shop. If you ever travel to Istanbul, be aware of the rug salesmen. They’ll get ya with a sweet little sob story about their family business and call you friends before asking you to purchase a piece of hand crafted carpet. This was the first of many rug excursions for us during our short stay here, but we enjoyed our time with "John Travolta."

Hospitality in Turkey is on another level. It's considered rude to reject a host's gift of coffee or tea.

After our time with the salesmen, they guided us to the entrance of the Blue Mosque, one of the most famous in the world, but there was too much construction happening to be able to actually see anything on the inside. So Jerome, Josiah, and I opted to read an informational wall in the courtyard that provided more insight into the Islamic faith. 

 The exterior of the Blue Mosque. "Sultan Ahmet" is the formal name.

The boys and I then spent the afternoon wandering around town and made our way to the coast to catch a stellar view of the two continents that house Istanbul. 

One of the sweetest gifts of the entire day was running into one of the girls teams and getting to see a pal from my previous team, Alayna. At that point, my whole team had reconnected and from there we meandered to find dinner on a terrace. 

Alayna and I in front of the Hagia Sophia.

We landed at a restaurant that offered complimentary tea and baklava in addition to their insanely beautiful terrace. We’d been enjoying our time together for a while before we were approached by a couple from the United States that had placed a bet on who we were and what we were doing in Turkey together. Keep in mind that we are a group of eight guys and we catch everyone’s attention. The man had pegged us as a traveling puppeteer group while his wife had decided that we are fraternity brothers celebrating summer. They were so good at engaging us in conversation and they eventually got the answer that they wanted. These two had both served as missionaries in Central American countries and I’m convinced that they knew who we were right off the bat. Haha Eventually they departed and our food came to us, we scarfed down our meals, and then our waiter came bearing incredible news.

“The American couple that you spoke with paid for your entire meal on their way out.” 

Whoa. Honestly, we’d spared no expense. If you’re reading this and you’re the couple who paid for our meal, we are so grateful for your kindness. Folks, they didn’t even know it was my birthday. What a stinkin' gift from my Pops. He’s the most kind. 

Post-dinner, we made a trip to visit our wonderful ice cream man, and he gave me my ice cream for “no money.” Dang, what a birthday, ammiright?? 

He cares for me. He cares for you. He knows us so intimately that He can give us the greatest gifts that we didn’t even know that we wanted. I’m thankful to be where I'm at. I’m grateful to be His kid. I’m stoked for another year of life. 

I love you. 

AWM 

The boys in front of the Hagia Sophia.