Another year at GFC is in the books. Greene Family Camp has been a routine stop during the summer for me in the last ten years. Being a counselor at the URJ camp was first however. Although I still come for some of the same reasons like to see my friends, there are different reasons that I still go there. I feel of great importance to be able to take care of the kids we have. All counselors share the same job of taking care of this Jewish youth, but it still feels special. The enthusiasm that I received when I was a camper rubbed off on me in a way that has made camp such a special place for me. I feel that it is important for me to give the same enthusiasm that I received-- which really affected me-- to the campers now. The Jewish experience the campers embark on during camp really sticks with them throughout their whole life, and it makes me feel special to know that I am a huge part of their Jewish education.
Being a camper at camp taught me a lot about my talents, and one of them is taking care of kids. I worked at the Jewish Community Center with two year olds a few years ago, and last year with third, fourth, and fifth graders. I know I have a lot of experience to share anywhere, but I am especially glad to bring it back to camp, because GFC influenced me so much. Even though I had all this experience with kids, I figured it to be a tough transition to become staff at an overnight camp. Since I was so familiar with camp, it was quite a simple transition to become staff.
A Jewish community is of great importance to me. Being surrounded by people that are Jewish and sharing the religion is when I feel most Jewish. It is something we have in common with each other. Whether it's sharing the same jokes like saying “that ain't kosher” or having a lingo that other people may not understand are things that link us together. Inside jokes are a comfort zone. If we can all recognize each other like the way we do, we feel safe and comfortable.
I am a freshman in college, a huge transition in my life, my age, and my religion. These years are the most important years to think about my Jewish identity. These fast years will determine how much I will be keeping up with Judaism throughout my adulthood, as well as raising a Jewish family. Going to camp helps me keep up with just that. It helps me keep my individuality and spirit with Judaism strong. Especially as my Jewish friends go different ways from our hometown and sort of fade away during the year, I am glad for camp. Keeping connected is extremely important, and sharing the memories we have experienced through camp and Judaism will keep the communication strong.
Camp this summer wasn't exactly a spiritual summer, but one of comfort and community. It was great being in a Jewish place that I know, and being with Jewish friends. It was great sharing part of my Jewish identity, and just being myself.
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