September 1, 2009 - Reflections On Camp

In the days leading up to my son’s first two-week stay at overnight camp this past summer, I was struck by the number of parents of soon-to-be campers who (I’m paraphrasing) uttered the words above. They yearned for a similar summer camp experience, recalling best friends, first loves, swimming medals, ghost stories, and the ticks of their youth.   

I found myself wondering what is it about “camp” that is so desired or memorable for so many of us former campers. Is it the opportunity for independence, for play, for discovery or recovery? Maybe it’s the chance to get dirty? Maybe, it’s all of the above! And yet, with the exception of the few of us who sign up for “family camp,” these experiences, etched in our minds and on our skin in the form of scars from falling on the way to the the latrine at night, are a distant memory.  

The good news is that I think that “camp” is actually an option for all of us — an every season, scaled down, inexpensive, running toilet alternative to the summer version. Granted, in the summer, you may not be as welcoming to mosquitoes, but you’re scratching an “itch.”  In the winter, you may not “return” from your camp experience with a golden tan but I think you can glow!

So, if the idea of going to “camp” resonates with you — during the summer or any time of the year, here are some questions for your consideration: