Stronger than you Think

As we launched into our first full day of activities at camp, it’s marvelous already. Literally, there are marvels everywhere. Girls are dancing and laughing, already singing as loud as they can, cheering with abandon. They’re stomping and skipping all over these Rockbrook hills making their way between shooting archery and rolling slabs of clay. They’re down at the barn tacking up horses and over at the Alpine tower climbing on belay. They’re swimming in the lake and playing in the sun. Looms are clicking and ukulele strings are being strummed. It’s astonishing how over there tennis balls zoom over the net, while over here girls zoom through the trees on the zipline.

With so many activities all happening simultaneously, it’s not surprising a typical day at Rockbrook is busy in this way. Everybody is involved. Everyone is switching gears between sports and the arts, between adventure and a surprise encounter with a friend. You might find it surprising, however, just how effortlessly your girls are taking to all this camp action.

It’s only the first day of camp, and they’re showing a natural openness to the challenges of new activities. It might be aiming her target rifle, or steering her tandem canoe, or cutting a piece of wood accurately. It might be mustering the nerve to join a square dancing line, or to “wet exit” after flipping upside down in a kayak. They’re not shrinking away from any of this, not giving in to perhaps little doubts or worries. No, instead they’re feeling the pull of supportive, caring friends, and giving everything a go. Along with simply being away from home, these girls are proving they’re strong.

I think that’s one of the best lessons kids learn while at camp. Around here success follows challenges, realizing “I did it!” follows “I’m not sure I can.” Let’s put it this way… Camp proves for kids, “You’re stronger than you think.” The result of realizing this strength is greater confidence and courage, both qualities we all hope kids can embody as they grow. Another way to say it is “camp is empowering.” It’s the perfect recipe for a young person, nowadays more than ever as uncertainties and worries seem all too common.

I’m sure you can tell from the photo gallery, but let me reassure you. Your girls are doing great. Truly marvelous.