In this week’s Torah portion, mayim, the Hebrew word for water is mentioned 22 times. There is the commandment to mix water with the ashes of a red cow for purification, the well which provided the Israelites with water disappears when Miriam dies, and Moses strikes the rock in anger to bring forth water. What lessons can we learn from this “water narrative” that are relative to camp?
The opportunity to be outside in nature is something we often take for granted at camp. As campers splash in the lake, take care of the animals at the farm, and sit by the stream, there are ample opportunities to explore and appreciate the nature around us. Seeing a colorful sunset, an occasional rainbow and star gazing with friends are important components of a Capital Camps’ summer.
This past week the wildfires in Canada necessitated increased indoor programing. This change taught us two important lessons. First, it helped increase our appreciation of nature. Losing some precious time outside reminded us how much we enjoy all that this beautiful campus has to offer. This week was also filled with lessons about flexibility, creativity, and resilience.
Between an impromptu song session with our Benjamin campers, a multi-village Bingo game with camp swag for prizes, and even a Kaufmann Village rock concert including a visit from “Taylor Swift”, our campers and staff engaged in innovative and fun activities.
As we conclude our first week at camp, we are looking forward to seeing what Reich Village prepared during their Shabbat prep time. We will sing, dance, pray and reflect on the week. Our CITs will return from their incredible Richmond Community Service trip in time to help us welcome in the Sabbath, while our LITs will have their own camp-style Shabbat in Israel.
We entered camp as individuals and by the end of the week have become a Kehillah, or community. We can’t wait to taste the challah made by some of our Benjamin campers! We are grateful for the natural beauty of camp and grateful to be together.
Shabbat Shalom!
Lisa Handelman
Camp Director