After the rainiest week I've ever had at camp, the sun finally came out on Friday and the parents were greeted by sunshine, smiling campers and happy staff. By Thursday night, I'd had 4 counselors break down and cry, and I'd had to deal with behavior or other issues with every single cabin. Kids and staff were tired, sick of being cold and wet, and ready for a break. But Friday was a perfect day and camp life was good again. I was actually really sad to see the kids go home- don't get me wrong, I NEEDED a break, but they were so fun and funny and cute and I always feel a little sad when we say goodbye.
One part of the closing ceremony is awards. Kids get awards for activities, one cabin wins the spirit award and we award counselor of the week to one staff member.
HP was a leader-in-training 4 years ago, then a counselor in training, then a junior counselor last year. Camp is his life. He is a triplet and his two brothers are athletic and popular. HP is quiet, kind of awkward, and before he came to camp 4 years ago, his mother warned me that he might not make it though the week because he is not socially capable. I was literally terrified of him when he got off the bus because his mother had built him up so much I was really worried he was going to be a monster. But he was quiet and sweet and nerdy and wonderful. So then I spent the whole week confused and still waiting for his terrible side to show.
Four years later, I have yet to see anything except an awkward kid who is desperate to fit in and be recognized as an individual. At camp, he is accepted for who he is, he is an individual and everyone loves him. And yet, when he applied to be a counselor this year, I struggled terribly with the decision. I knew how much camp meant to him and I knew if he didn't get the job, he'd be crushed. But I was REALLY concerned that he would be too timid and nervous to actually be in charge of a cabin of kids. His interview wasn't great- he was so nervous he could barely answer my questions. I really didn't know what the right answer was, but ultimately, I decided to give him a chance and see how it would go this summer. I knew he would be safe and kids would be safe, but I didn't know if I could expect much more than that. I planned to work with him this summer and give him a lot of guidance.
So imagine my surprise when, given a cabin of spacey little 7 and 8 years olds, he spent the week organized, calm, easy going, patient, and the kids were IN LOVE with him. He was exceptional. He was my vote for staff of the week, but not only mine, but won by a landslide.
When we announced his name at the award ceremony, he had the same reaction Miss America does- his eyes got wide, he took a shocked deep breath in while covering his mouth with his hand, he stood for a moment without breathing or moving and then came to the stage to shakily accept his blanket (the prize that they get). He went back to his seat clutching it as if it was a bar of gold. Later, when I congratulated him and told him it was a landslide, he said, "I just don't understand- everyone worked so hard and I can't believe it." I think it was the most adorable, satisfying staff of the week win I've ever seen. It means the world to him just to be here, but to be recognized for doing a good job was really meaningful to him.
For me, it is incredible to see an individual go from a quiet kid, grow into a leader and be so obviously affected by his experience with camp. I know camp makes a difference and changes peoples lives, but seeing it so obviously is incredibly rewarding and I selfishly hope to experience that level of pride and achievement with many more staff and campers to come.
First week complete. And, despite some drama and nonsense, I'm calling it a success...
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