As I sit and think about the day today I couldn't help but notice a parallel between the transformation of the season and the many significant transformations happening throughout camp. As we have started our third of five weeks in this first session, these kids have been pushing their counselors to the limits. Each week though, these new counselors come back to the group with new ideas and admirable resilience. I watch them take hit after hit of attitude and craziness... only to get back up with new ways of dealing with the same old behaviors. Because of their hard work and tireless efforts, changes are happening. They are working hard and are challenging the kids to work even harder to make the changes they need to so as to prove to us that they are ready and willing to be the best versions of themselves. This hasn't happened with all of the kids yet, but I have definitely seen the kids start to realize how much we care for them here. They are putting up with the creaky bunk beds, communal bathrooms, and being fussed at by the adults around them because they know that we only want the best from them. They could have given up and stayed home, but they just keep coming back. Dr. Glasser believes that everyone needs at least one person in life who genuinely cares about them and who they genuinely care about. Here at camp we hope that they can find that. Even more than that, we hope they find an overwhelming amount of people here care deeply about them and their future. This is often the most important part of the equation that helps them to change. So just like the season, changes are happening here at camp. Big surprise right? I don't think I would still be here if there weren't big changes happening every single day. I love this place and the people here. Here's to a great start to what I hope is another great year.
for.the.kids
It is amazing that after three years you are still looking at this camp and the experience the same way. When I read each of your blog posts, I see a person that lets themselves be surprised everyday by the little growths each child and adult makes. This camp, from everything that I have heard and also from my visit, makes me excited to know people working to make a difference not just for a fve week session, but you all are making a difference for a lifetime in these children. It starts at the top with Binky and Samford and on down through the staff. You are all making a huge difference and it shows each Sunday when the kids come with a smile and leave with a better attitude toward life on Fridays.
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