Redefining "Cool"

I've been watching the schedules for this week and I have to say that I'm excited by some of the language they use to describe what's going on. For instance, before lunch they will have what's called a "Jam Fest" on the porch. During staff training I think I got to witness a little bit of this time.

Basically, they gather on the porch before lunch and sing together. The counselors lead all kinds of different songs to help pass the time while the helpers are finishing up getting the tables ready and the kitchen gives the cue that the doors can open. The songs I witness were of the silly nature. Now, I don't care how old or young the camper is, this can be such a fun part of camp. It's one more way the counselors can cut loose and really show the campers that this is not about looking "cool". It's about just having fun together, plain and simple.

To the campers the counselors are the coolest people on the planet. And to watch them be silly and not care really sets the tone that camp is a safe place to be. It's a place that kids can be who they are without fear of being judged and made fun of. Hopefully they learn pretty quickly that if they have any worries from the outside world, they can forget about them at least for this week. All campers are on equal ground around here.

The counselors are trained to be present in your camper's life this week. They're trained to be there for the fun and silly times and also to be aware and present during those serious moments of discovering God's plan in their lives. I don't think my kids are going to know what hit them. This will be their first Christian camping experience and the discovery time that will be available to them will be mind blowing I think. To hear the faith journeys of their counselors, to experience along side other campers that are like them and not like them, is a powerful moment for all involved. Camp is such a special place to discover a new image of God. The image that's not seen as much sitting in the pews at church.

These counselors will redefine for your camp what "cool" is really all about. Sometimes being a Christian kid is hard. To hear all those lessons in Sunday School, at church, or even from you and putting it into practice isn't always easy for any age. But for the campers to see the coolest people ever sharing their faith and putting their faith into action can have a phenomenal effect on a young person. Suddenly it can be a cool thing to enjoy learning about the person God wants you to be and acting on it.

As you're writing to your camper during their time this week, it might be interesting for them to hear about any camping experiences that you have had. Friends you made, counselors that made an impact on you, or maybe even an experience you always wished you had. Your camper may decide to give your dream a try and then share it with you when they see you. What a great conversation piece for the ride home!