Thrasher uses the term “falling backward” to describe the way he made decisions throughout his life. He didn’t make definite decisions about his future; instead, he just experienced life as he pleased and let his passions guide his way.
An example of “falling backward” would be when he chose to study abroad in Scotland. He was forced to declare a major at that point, so he chose history and religion because he knew he liked those topics; therefore, he let them lead his way.
Along with many other aspects of Thrasher’s life, attending seminary was not planned. “Spirit’s guidance through that time led me to where I am today. If you rest in the spirit guiding you, everything will be okay as long as you listen as much as possible, engage in the things you enjoy, and do good in the world.”
Throughout his life, Thrasher has had many opportunities to travel around the world. He says with force and passion,“If you are constantly conversing with people who think the same way you do, then you will never be transformed. We, as humans, need to engage across those boundary lines in order to get to know ourselves on a deeper level.”
He feels that if we don’t explore different cultures, cities, states, or countries, we become very inwardly focused. We become threatened by strange and unknown things, but travel takes away the threat of differences.
"We, as humans, need to engage across those boundary lines in order to get to know ourselves on a deeper level."
Photograph by Keren Morales
Reverend Thrasher working hard on the fall mission trip
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