I have been to America many times in my relatively short life (eight in total if you include lay-overs), but this trip would be markedly different to my other visits to the land of Uncle Sam. For one, it would be the first time that I would be traveling alone (although I would meet some amazing people) but more significantly, it would be the first time I would be working at a summer camp.
Prior to this trip my only experience of a summer camp was watching The Parent Trap (a million times) as a kid growing up in London so my knowledge of summer camps was minimal. I remember being really anxious about meeting my camp family, as I have no forms of social media, so I had no idea what they looked like, what their interest were or even what they were called. But, it seemed as though God knew exactly how I felt, and thankfully I was able to form a real special bond with all of the people at Camp DeWolfe.
In addition to meeting new people, I was also preparing to learn how to teach rock climbing/ challenge course. However, as usual, God delivered and I became a good instructor which was due to my professional training and outstanding co-workers at the challenge course, whose help and patience towards me was invaluable during staff training.
In my opinion, the main theme for me for summer has been growing as a person and more importantly as a Christian. I choose to take a positive stance, for I am extremely grateful for the people I met (young and old), the skills I have learned, the places I have visited and the Christian I have become, because as usual, God delivers.
Written by René Leonçe
Summer Camp Counselor and Climbing Instructor
Rene and campers on the course