As camp is winding down, about half of the campers here right now will not touch the sacred CSL soil until next year. Some are in a frenzy about packing, and leaving their second home, while others are just in shock that their beloved CSL year is over.
As a first year staff member I wasn't sure what to expect, despite it being my 9th summer at Camp. Are the kids going to like me? Will I get along with the staff? Will I be able to handle the exhaustion and stress? Those were all questions running through my head prior to the campers arriving on Camp Road. After only one session, I can safely say that this is where I belong as a camper and also a staff member.
As an activity counselor in athletics, I was able to be with every bunk in camp, which I consider a privilege. Yes of course I love my C-5 bunk, however it's always nice to meet other people. I can safely say I know the overwhelming majority of campers at camp, and it is a very special thing for me when they say hi to me and I can say hi back while knowing who they are. Through my many years at camp, I've found that the more people you can familiarize yourself with, the better time you will have.
This session was an enormous success for Cayuga and CSL as a whole. It's rare to walk around camp and not see a smile on someone's face, or to listen to someone complaining that they are bored. Some say Disney World is magical but those who have gone to CSL know that the true magic is here. I know that is very cliche, but hundreds of thousands of people will without a doubt say that same thing. As a first year staff member, I couldn't have asked for a better session and a better group of people to be surrounded by. Thank you to all campers, staff, and of course, parents of the campers that have made this possible.
As I re-read this partially written blog post, I have no idea what it is about, and chances are neither do you. Displaying or talking about a love for camp has been attempted by many but it is impossible to accurately describe. I'm trying to and failing to describe my love of camp. Maybe that just shows that its such a special place for campers and staff, that not being able to accurately state one's reasoning for loving camp shows how much love can go into one place.
Can't wait to meet everyone next session.
Adam Stein
C-5 Activity Counselor
