Camp has been so wonderful this year. In large part it is due to the chemistry of the campers, not to mention, of course, the dedicated hours of our volunteers and staff. Although that service by so many is a constant year-to-year, what has made this year especially remarkable has been the lack of cliques and drama among the campers, much less than in some of our prior years, for some is to be expected. We also were blessed with so many campers who have been with us before that the group has “jelled” beautifully.

We did have weather challenges on the OA (overnight adventure) days of camp which involve offsite canoeing and hiking and so we brought our groups back early as a result. That’s just how camp is – no matter what is planned the lesson most valuably learned is how to handle the unexpected and to do so with care, composure, and compassion, always being reminded God’s got this. The change of plans ran smoothly with lots of effort by our leaders, especially our amazing counselors and youth leaders who adapted so well to the changes. We actually had to turn some wonderful young people down this year who wanted to be counselors since we had so many who wanted to serve after experiencing this very special camp in prior years.

During the campers’ and counselors’ OA days off site Sid and I typically visit relatives in the area who could be uplifted by a visit. This year we went to our 98 year old infirm aunt’s home in the Catskills where she lives with her autistic 74 year old son and their full time caregiver. It was a wonderful time in so many ways and for me, unexpectedly revealed the answer to a question I’ve had for the past several years.

Through these writings I’ve shared with you that for the past couple years it has seemed I was to be doing something with music and I didn’t know what that was. While visiting our aunt I had the opportunity to explore that prodding and was given so much direction. Through my interactions with her I learned what songs and music elderly patients like to hear.  I learned to feel life through her eyes. I experienced joy beyond measure, and her tears were those of nostalgia and happiness as well.

I was grateful my little uke and I had a repertoire of oldies as well as spiritually uplifting songs and also learned how much a schoolteacher of kindergarteners loves the music that reminds her of happier days. We both were smiling as she remembered and sang every letter of the “ABC” song and “Mary Had a Little Lamb”, not to mention favorites of the ‘20s and ‘30s just meant for the uke. Some Elvis Presley hits not to mention Joshua Aaron’s “Immanuel” really lit her up and for sure, “This Little Light of Mine” was a special fav. This unexpected music ministry seems to be beginning . . .

In each of our lives we are given so many opportunities to serve Him in the ways He directs. In this case I’ve been patiently waiting and am so grateful for this random visit to further reveal next steps in my journey with Him. I’ve added new songs to my song journal. For some of us raising children we listen for His direction on how to do just that. For all of us in any relationship, especially ones in which we have responsibilities to the other, we ask for direction how to serve the other more meaningfully. In community we have so many opportunities to serve. We just have to have the heart to want to do His will as a priority.

Every morning during my prayer time I ask, “How can I serve”, and He answers, maybe not immediately but I love the clues. It may be for that day, that week, or perhaps hints of longer term surprises to come. The mystery is miraculous and part of the excitement of life in Him. Sometimes we just patiently wait for an answer, but in the meantime there are endless opportunities to be a blessing to others.  For sharing His love with others is always on the right path.

I thank Him for the long term response and now, back to camp to continue to serve our very own next generation at Camp Or L’Dor! 😊

Shabbat shalom.

Diane