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Tak Talk Blog- Camp Takajo – June 28, 2022

By June 28, 2022 Tak Talk
The Arch at Camp Takajo for Boys in Naples, Maine

Bright sunshine and a cool breeze in the air made the perfect conditions for Camp Takajo’s first day of regular program. League teams were announced for each age group, and every field was in use throughout the day. We don’t play team sports by bunk, because the emotional makeup of a cabin has nothing to do with their ability to compete against boys in their age group. Over the last few days, we’ve done quick evaluations in an effort to make fair and balanced teams, so that our games are fun and competitive. Our league teams will stay together for the next two weeks, allowing every team to compete against every other team in the age group in every sport. Once we complete that cycle, we have a fun playoff, and then we make new teams in week three.

Our younger boys were assigned to their hobby and skill groups, which are part of our little guys’ daily program. It’s thrilling to see the smile on a little guy’s face the first time he gets up on water skis. The wind was perfect for sailing on Long Lake, and the kayaks were out in full force near our sailing dock.

The Arch Ideals at Camp Takajo for Boys in Naples, MaineTonight, the entire camp came together for our opening campfire in our council ring for the first time. While there are many highlights to my summer, the opening campfire is always my favorite. We purposefully bring the camp together a few days into the season to give the boys and our staff the opportunity to acclimate to the camp environment. After having a few days of living in close proximity with one another, it’s the perfect opportunity to introduce our campers and staff to the Takajo Arch Ideals. We sat in the council ring, mesmerized by a roaring campfire as the sky was illuminated by bright, beautiful stars. Twelve campers were selected to participate in our candle lighting ceremony, which introduced our camp community to the words listed on the Takajo Arch. You could hear a pin drop as campers read aloud to the group about honesty, self-reliance, sportsmanship, and the other guiding principles that shape this institution.

Takajo Arch IdealsMy primary focus as a camp director has always been on teaching life skills. I feel incredibly blessed to have this facility as a vehicle in which we can teach young boys how to grow up to be fine young men. I place great value on character, looking someone in the eye during a conversation, shaking hands after a competition, and finding the courage to stick up for the underdog, even if it’s not seen as a popular move by one’s peers. It’s my hope that the opening campfire sets the foundation for creating a community of trust and empathy, but I can assure you, there are days when it feels like this is a lofty goal, nevertheless worthy of our efforts.

When the campfire came to a close, campers and staff left in silence, reflecting on the message and inspired to be contributing members of this community.