"Mission to Asia" | Memoir | Part V of VI | Travel Journals

The day before my departure to Asia, I sat through a thorough briefing, but this time, I wasn’t preparing for my usual solo expedition. Curiosity filled me as I wondered about the individuals who would be accompanying me on this trip. As the briefing unfolded, I was handed an address where I would meet my fellow travelers. The room buzzed with quiet intensity, and I could sense the gravity of what lay ahead.

When I found out the meeting point, I was both surprised and reassured by the intriguing secrecy of my new travel companions. Consequently, I had to approach our rendezvous with caution and silence as we prepared for our extensive journey to Asia. The air felt thick with anticipation, and my thoughts raced with possibilities. I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of mission this truly was.

I couldn’t contain my excitement!

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Having never traveled outside of Washington, D.C., and certainly never to an entire continent, I chose to spend the night at my mom’s house. Being in her comforting presence provided me with a sense of support, helping me to ease the anxiety I felt about leaving the United States. Her warm embrace and soothing words reminded me of home and childhood safety. We talked late into the evening, reminiscing about past adventures and imagining what lay ahead.

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In the witching hour when shadows dance in silence and the world slumbers deeply, darkness cloaked Washington, my mother and I said our goodbyes. Before I could leave her side, she offered a heartfelt prayer that struck a deep chord within me, causing tears to well in my eyes. She implored Christ Jesus to keep me safe and to watch over me during my stay in Asia. Her voice trembled slightly, filled with emotion and love.

After sharing one last embrace with my mother, I stepped outside to a taxicab waiting for me at the curb. The night air was brisk, and the streetlights cast long shadows across the pavement. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves.

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The taxicab driver quietly helped me load my two suitcases into the trunk before I settled into the back seat, prepared to embark on this two-week journey to Asia.

Shrouded in mystery, the taxicab silently navigated the dimly lit streets before merging onto the renowned Suitland Parkway, a route commonly traveled by the President of the United States. The driver skillfully maneuvered the vehicle with exceptional discretion, ensuring a seamless journey through the night. The silence between us only added to the mysterious atmosphere, heightening my anticipation for what lay ahead. I stared out the window, watching familiar landmarks fade into the shadows. My heart pounded with excitement and nervous energy.

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As we approached the checkpoint gate at Joint Base Andrews, it was clear that the taxicab could go no further. I retrieved my belongings from the trunk and proceeded to identify myself with the authorities. Once cleared, I was escorted to the designated meeting point where my team awaited.

Under the cover of darkness, we moved silently towards a brightly illuminated area. Not a word was exchanged between me and the armed military officer accompanying me. The closer we got, the clearer the silhouettes of people and a massive aircraft became visible. There it stood, proud and prepared for our mission: a C-131 aircraft, flanked by a team of ten highly trained U.S. Air Force men who were set to take me across the ocean to Asia! I was so stoked to be accompanied by the military!!

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(Copyright © 2025 by Mia Z. Edwards. All rights reserved.)