Are you working at a camp this summer? If you are, you're probably reading this on a break, laying in bed after being worn out from a long day, or in the bathroom because it's the only place you can have two minutes to sneak out your phone before going back into the battlefield that you love so much.
Working at a camp during the summer is the most tiring thing I have experienced. I wake up at 7 a.m. and on average I'm not putting my head on my pillow till about 12:15 a.m. that night. I lay down emotionally and physically drained from the day I have experienced, yet I love what I do.
Being a leader at camp, each of us are placed directly in a position of influence. Think back to elementary, middle and high school. When you walked away from camp, what were some of your fondest memories? The counselors. These people served as influencers in your life. Whether you loved them or hated them, they were the ones who got you hyped up for rec or sat up late at night to discuss things you were struggling with. Knowing you are one of the main contributors to your students experience is a mix of plain scary and pure excitement.
As you wrap up your summer, I encourage you to dig deep. Find the students who are slipping through the cracks. Pour into them. Know you are in a significant position of influence. Make connections and build relationships with your staff members. Get lit at Rec. And make this a summer of growth.
