Sunday, June 23, 2013

The Happiest Place on Earth

          Okay, so Disney made the claim first, and probably even copyrighted it, but I really can't imagine any place happier than where I am right now.  One hundred and twenty campers decended today on CampHOPEfor Kids in Swenksville, PA. 
          Sweet eagerness fills the air.  Cabins are loading up with kids in color-coded tee-shirts.  College-age counselors are relieving parent of a week's worth of responsibility after they have deposited their kids for 7days of swimming, canoe-ing, rock climbing, zip-lining across Swamp Creek; volleyball, basketball, gaga (new to me--its a sort of dodgeball in an enclosed court), night-time pranks, singing, praying and dramatic presentation of Jesus' Parables. 
          You can see the friendships already developing.  Companionship for the vulnerable--these bonds will last.  There's also a bit of hero-worship here.  And why not, when your cabin counselor is the coolest college kid you've ever seen and they are making you laugh, reassuring every insecurity and basically, being your slave?
          I have a few words left to describe these counselors.

     --spiritual
     --visionaries
         
          I'm overwhelmed with the comforting feeling that this generation has the world well in hand.  They are the face of Christianity for this half of the 21st century.  They are wholesome to the core.  Their commitment and integrity will bless all whose lives they touch.
          I'd been told for years that I needed to come and see this camp.  I'm so grateful it finally happened.  I'm praying for the funding that will enable this camp to last for generations to come.

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