My campers, my campers, look at all of you.

Almost a month into camp, and look how much you’ve grown. Each day is like a shiny new adventure for you to unfold. It truly is a joy to watch you go. To see your smiles, and hear you laugh, it’s the greatest achievement I’ve ever had. Each and every night I go home tired and smiling, but sometimes I wonder, do you?

My campers, my campers, I am here for you.

I walk through those doors every morning for each and every one of you. I want you to be as excited and enthusiastic as I once was when I was in your shoes. This is your summer, and I want you to know, that you are the ones running this show. You should be the ones to pick the game or sing the song. I am only here to guide you along. Your happiness is what fuels this camp, and that is something we truly can’t take back. It breaks my heart to see you sad, but what makes it worse is when I don’t understand.

My campers, my campers, please talk to us.

Whether you like it or not us counselors are here to help you in any way we can. I sometimes fear that you feel outspoken. That your voice gets lost in the crowd until you eventually grow silent. Please don’t grow quiet, scream from the rooftops! Understand that we want to hear you and that you deserve to be heard. So tell us what you want, get your voice heard. Listening is the least we can do to make this summer the best it can be.

My campers, my campers, I worry about you.

I can’t help but feel as though camp isn’t always what we want it to be. Some days are better than others, and sadly, some days aren’t what we want them to be. If it were up to me, every day would be perfect, but I don’t have such a superpower. I challenge you my campers to take each day on with open arms. Remember yesterday was yesterday, but today is today. Remember to keep your chin held high, and look to the sky.

My campers, my campers, keep smiling.

Stay happy my campers. Don’t ever let the world knock you down. If it happens, though, just stand up ten feet taller. You have so much to offer this big bright world; so laugh loudly, smile widely, and aim for the stars that shine so brightly. There is so much left for you to do, and plenty of things to see, but yet here you are at our little camp. The thing is, I can’t help being selfishly grateful that you are here instead of there. You see, if there is anything you need to know, it is this:

My campers, my campers, you’re the best reason to be here.