This past week I have been a counselor at a Christian camp for junior and high school kids. And honestly that trip could not have come at a better time. As you know I have been finishing my Thesis and two days before I left for camp I had my defense, which I pasted with beautiful colors!
But then I left for camp. One week without my computer (for which I am admittedly addicted to), no cell phone (well I had it but I pretty much kept it off, minus the few times I called home to tell my hubby I missed him and loved him tons), and No television, and no homework. I was not only technology stripped, but I was also placed in charge of 10 junior high girls. Now I do not want this to sound like "oh look at me I went a week without technology and I was in charge of a bunch of kids, because that is not my point. My point it that for the first time in a while I was COMPLETELY out of my element. But I walked by faith. And I learned a number of vital lessons.
First I learned that I really like the real me. My girls brought out a side of me that I have not seen in a while! I was reminded of what it is like to be a child. I laughed, sang, danced, and played without a fear in the world. I was able to really look at the world around me and take the time to appreciate all of gods thumb prints. My girls reminded me that sometimes we all need to just let go.
Second, I learned who I want to be. I have always been career focused but not I want to work on the rest of me. I have a career path and it is pretty set. Four more years of grad school, numerous research projects as well as countless hours of reading and writing papers. However, there is WAY more to me then just school. I also want to be a person that people want to be around. I want to be a leader and role model to those around me. I want to be the person that God had intended me to be.
While we were at camp the entire group looked at Matthew 5 1-10 otherwise known as the beatitudes! And I learned many of the characteristics that I want to exhibit. I know I have lots of work to do, but I also know that I was that person this past week. I felt love and I loved. For once I really loved who I was. And more importantly, I was able to be there for my kids when they needed me. I was told through noted that they each gave me that in many more ways then I could not I was able to help them through some tough stuff. These messages will be cherished forever and I know that I will look at them often.
Bot most importantly, I was given a great deal of clarity in the area of who I am and whom I need to become. I want my actions to reflect my faith and I want to continue to be the person I was at camp. I want to continue to learn as much as I can but I also want to be able and be comfortable sharing my faith.
I pray I never EVER forget this week. And when life begins to pile up on me like I know it will I just pray that I can reflect back to this week and remember that all I need to do is turn my eyes to the sky and ask for help!
And all God's children said... Amen!
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