This Camp Is Boring
Boys’ T.R.A.C. in Jefferson, Oregon, was a challenge this year. In fact, a few veteran staff said camp was the most difficult they’d experienced in 14 years of volunteering. With a new location and a serious flow of testosterone from the boys, a few situations escalated quickly. Every camper wanted to argue whether they were involved or not.
Each time, however, staff and volunteers responded with patience and a listening ear. Everyone showed nothing but love and compassion. Seeing the love and forgiveness of Jesus shine through the staff members was beautiful. They truly made every moment count.
A few weeks later, girls’ T.R.A.C. was the absolute best. The immediate bonds of friendship happening upon arrival were typical of the second or third day—not within the first few hours. After the first challenge course, Elizabeth, my co-facilitator, and I just looked at each other, eyes open wide in amazement. We could only imagine what the rest of camp would hold.
After T.R.A.C., I reflected on my takeaways from the two completely different experiences.
Don't grumble or complain about anything. Consider it all joy because God is with us each step of the way. Praise him on the mountain high and the valley low.
His light shines brightest through us in our deepest, darkest valleys.
Jesus is pleased with our servants’ hearts. T.R.A.C. pleases Him and brings Him glory!
Sometimes after a bad experience volunteering at T.R.A.C., it’s tempting to give up. I’ve served for the last three years, and I laugh because this still isn't the ministry for me, either!
We do what we do for teenagers impacted by trauma.
The enemy wants to keep these youth trapped in anger, hatred, shame and mistrust, but T.R.A.C. gives us an opportunity to point to the love of Jesus. Three days makes a difference.
Like for Z, a first-time camper this summer. He and another camper left the group at challenge course to sit at a nearby picnic table.
“How's it going?” I asked.
“This camp is boring,” Z sneered. “These games are stupid, and this camp sure ain't worth no 700 bucks.”
I gave a little laugh. “Yeah, the first day can be a little slow at first to give everyone a chance to ease into things, but trust me, you won't be bored.”
“Whatever.” Z shook his head in disbelief. “This is stupid, and I can't believe we paid $700 for this.”
Once again, I promised things would improve and corrected Z, saying camp was free. “All the adults volunteer and donors give money, so campers don’t have to pay.”
“Yeah,” the other camper chimed in. “I get to come here for free.”
“Whatever.” Z was not convinced. “This camp is a rip-off.”
I didn’t argue, but suggested we return to the group.
“Yeah, sure. Whatever.” Z stood up to follow me back to the group. “What are we doing anyway?”
“I don't know,” I joked. “Probably something stupid.”
Z gave me a wry smile.
Later, Z apologized for being rude and disrespectful.
His words caught me off guard, but I thanked him for making my day.
Z didn’t stop smiling the rest of camp. His joy and participation amazed me after his initial reluctance. He volunteered multiple times to pray at meals and wanted to be in the skits at CrossTalk.
Guess who is interested in being mentored through T.R.A.C.life?
That’s right . . . Z!