Summer Camp

For the last 12 years, I have spent one week each summer at Lake Texoma with 30 teenagers from all over the world as their counselor.  It's probably the coolest summer job...ever.

The Lions Club International brings these teens together each summer to promote peace and understanding among the nations of the world.  And my brother provides the ski boat; I make sure there is plenty of aloe vera after the days in the sun and Benadryl for the inevitable mysterious allergic reactions. 

David and I have a routine that we follow, arriving early before the campers to establish our rooms and theirs.  We pick their roommates, you see.  I find it's one more way to force them to mingle.  We all stay in one building, but the boys are required to sleep on their designated floor and the girls on theirs.  (They always think we are so provincial...all of our rules.  No drinking, no hanky panky with the other campers.)

David and I are charged with their safety and happiness.  This year was particularly successful, despite the trip to emergency on the 4th of July.  Tubing mishap.  All is well, however. 

The kids give presentations about their countries; we've come a long way now that we have power point.  Much more entertaining and easy to put together. 

We taught the kids to two step and Cotton Eyed Joe.  We even did the Chicken Dance. 

We watch movies, play Twister, stay up late and eat junk food.  We put together a "talent show" for the families at the end of the week.

And by the end of the week, teenagers who were complete strangers when they arrived cannot do without each other.  If that happens, we have done our jobs.  This year was such a success, we probably should have gotten a bonus.  (Just kidding.)  The bonus is seeing their faces when they are together.

As I watched them learn to ski, seeing the pure joy on their faces was payment enough honestly.  Spending the week of the 4th, the week of our nation's independence is even more meaningful to me.  Nineteen nations coming together, creating relationships---some that will last a lifetime.  The hope is that some day, when they have the opportunity to make a difference in the world they will remember this brief time in Texas with these friends. 

I am so grateful for this gift each year.  Each camp is so special and this one has been magical so far.