I'm lying awake at camp
"What is camp?" I asked
in our first year at a parents meeting at Madonna.
Several folks piped up to explain
it is a camp where the kids and teachers stay overnight at the 4-H grounds near
Louisville, NE. The kids participate in all kinds of nature and outdoor
activities.
The first year camp was available
to my son, we thought he may not like the overnight aspect but when the time
came, we went for it. We listened to him
share his experience. He felt safe and comfortable because he knows all the
campers as they all attend his school.
Coach V. asked me three years ago
if I would consider being a parent volunteer. They needed adult males to stay
with a group of young lads. I agreed.
Which brings me to tonight, or
rather early morning, as I cannot sleep. I lie awake thinking of so many
awesome events I’ve witnessed today. Even on my third camp with Madonna, I am
emotionally awake at what has transpired around me today.
The day began with a hearty lunch
and the traditional banner making. This entails picking a theme and then each
student contributes artistically to the banner. You really see the creativity
and ownership shine in each student as the banners are displayed in the main
lodge. (Eventually judged by the cooks on the last day.)
I walked down to the pond as they
are fishing and canoeing. There were smiles and laughter on the way back which
is a good half mile hike and a good-sized incline.
Then many students opted to shoot
hoops across the way and the rest blew bubbles and drew with sidewalk chalk.
Soon it is time for dinner and all the campers file into respective restrooms
to wash up. Our prayer is led by the music therapist intern. She based the
shared devotion on a Superman theme complete with actions. So I had to join right in.
I sat at a table with two other
adults and the rest are young men and one lucky lady from Iowa, who travels 45
miles each way to attend Madonna. Truly a rose between two thorns. We feasted
on baked chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, and cake for dessert, even a
serve yourself salad bar. What a pleasant dinner and I was pleasantly surprised
at the manners at our table. Campers cleared their plates and they took turns
washing the table and chairs. Another Dad said to me, "Can they come to my
house to clean like that?”
Next, the kids choose their own
outdoor materials and created art that all turned out very nicely. As the sun
began to set, it came time for the night hike. Flashlights in hand they headed
out and the staff and volunteers intermingled with the group starting on the
trail. At the turnaround point the word is passed down “Turn out the light and
see how dark it is…”
When they return to the lodge,
the fire is blazing and ready for s'mores.
The students sit on benches around the fire pit and take turns roasting
marshmallows (under the careful watch of the staff). The music therapists play
songs and the students sing along.
Now they were pretty tuckered out
and headed to their respective cabins. It took only mild coaxing for our crew
to be ready for lights out. Then the round of good nights began which was
reminiscent of the Walton's. They all fell quickly asleep.
But my mind is stirring. I toss and turn and I am just awake. Probably
too much excitement; maybe it’s the s'mores. Actually, I think I know what it
is:
This is yet another example of
the Madonna Program working to make the lives of so many children, including my
son, complete. He really doesn’t have
friends in the neighborhood because he is different. He does not try new things
well, he is rigid and many times we have to force him to do something new that
most kids do not have any reservation about. But here, I have witnessed a truly
enlightening experience watching the staff work with these wonderful, special
people. Camp is one part of the puzzle that empowers and enables in such a
joyful way.
You know, French toast, bacon,
and eggs is starting to sound really good. I will depart after breakfast, but
the campers still have archery, trail hikes, and organized games before lunch.
I may need an extra cup of coffee
in the morning, but it’s worth it.
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