There's a definite rhythm to camp. It's starts really early in the morning and there are lots of rules and routines and rituals to move us through the day.
My assignment as chaplain was to illuminate the daily themes of how we are linked in community:
-- love, acceptance, presence, grace and truth.
Being away from their familiar pillows, food, sleep patterns and families, the campers (many of whom return year after year) cling to these daily rhythms.
What is really amazing is that without the constant input and distraction of technology (the campers aren't allowed their phones and the adults can't use ours in their presence), there is space for conversation, and made-up games, for making friendship bracelets, crafts, playing cards and singing --- so much singing! There are songs about Bible characters right along with songs about belly buttons and lots of songs with motions and jumping, clapping and tongue twisters.
Across age groups and interests, the kids navigate their way to combat boredom. It is a glory to behold that isn't possible in the regular rhythm of daily living with technology. It's been a great inspiration to me to find ways to include some of those technology breaks and renewal rhythms into my daily life.
Thanks everyone for your encouragement to experience Camp Wanakee for myself. What a treasure.
Revkelly
P.s. the turkeys were encountered on the road to my bunk with no Campers around...so I was able to capture a photo. All my other experiences will just have to be remembered without photographic aids.
