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Tak Talk Blog- Camp Takajo – June 24, 2021

By June 24, 2021 Tak Talk
Director addresses staff

During the last year, I was haunted by the decision I made to not open camp in 2020. I had spent months speaking with infectious disease doctors and top epidemiologists who, frankly, were overwhelmed with how rapidly the coronavirus spread through the country and around the world.  So many of us were in such a dark and vulnerable place, faced with uncertainty and the overriding concern for the health of our loved ones and the impact that this would create for our children. I was lonely last summer. I spent my summer in camp and while my family enjoyed this incredible playground, I never felt so alone and dejected. Throughout the year, I made many trips to camp and consulted with hundreds of camp directors, some who opened, many who had not. I expanded my network to incredible physicians and became fixated on building a team to help me create the best possible outcome for our campers and staff this summer. Never in my fifty-one years of being at Takajo, thirty-two as owner, have I been more excited for a summer on the shores of Long Lake. 

Our campers have suffered immeasurably. Everyone on some level has been impacted– whether it’s the lack of peer interaction and socialization, the effects of learning remotely during the school year, or the lack of physical activity, caused by this sudden need for isolation. Our children need this summer now more than ever. Flanked by my incredible administrative team, we have assembled a remarkable group of men and women who are committed to providing your children with the safe, stimulating, and enriching experience that they deserve. We have spent the last two weeks together preparing for your child’s arrival. We have had discussions about your son’s interests and personality, his likes and his dislikes, his goals and aspirations. The start of the summer will be unique in that children will be arriving at camp with great ambivalence for some, while others with just a normal sense of nervous anticipation. Nevertheless, we are here and prepared to welcome your boys, nurture them, and give them the best summer of their lives. 

I have often said that some of the greatest fears in one’s life create the happiest memories and outcomes. As you prepare to send your child to camp, here are a few things to think about. Don’t let your child’s nerves prevent him from getting on that bus and having the best summer of his life. Let your son know that it’s normal to be nervous. Remind him of the first time he walked into school not knowing a classmate, tried out for a team not knowing his coach, and how those moments have subsequently become the launching pad for some of his greatest achievements. Share with your son an experience that you had, such as heading off to college, giving a speech for the first time, a job interview, or perhaps walking down the aisle, and use that to illustrate how normal it is to face adversity head on. Please know that I am here, surrounded by a remarkable team, all of whom are committed to providing your son with the warmth, love, and encouragement he deserves. As we embark on Takajo’s 75th camp season, please know how much I appreciate your love and support.