Mrs. W., when I came to your house for Shabbos, I realized how much I didn’t know
The Shabbos was one to be remembered. Spent with your daughter, a camp friend whom I had known for three years but scarcely saw, the weekend was a rare treat to spend an entire three days schmoozing, laughing, and just enjoying each other’s company.
You and your family were gracious, welcoming, and made me feel like a part of the family, but I doubt you can imagine just how much that Shabbos affected me. To understand it, you need some background — most of which you already know.
The friendship between your daughter and me travels back to one scant half a summer spent on the campgrounds of one very special camp in the Catskills. Our friendship blossomed as we watched our campers together, danced to the beat of nonstop music, and tiredly took our OD shifts. By far the most magical moments were those spent hugging our campers good night, saying Shema, and reveling in the day’s accomplishments and triumphs.
You see, this very special camp was filled with very special campers who filled our days with light, joy, laughter, and fun. Through their individual struggles and unfathomable daily challenges, they taught us what it means to give and give and give some more until your heart is bursting with love, gratitude, and fortitude. I came home from camp not only with a new friend, but also with countless lessons. It is a summer I will always cherish.
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