We start every orientation by telling our staff to expect the unexpected, but today it takes on a whole new meaning. Overcast skies gave way to bright sunshine as we engaged in our yearly Fourth of July ritual with camper photos. Bunk photos are posted in your myTakajo.com account and on the Campanion app for current camp parents to view. After days of drizzly weather, our boys finally experienced the magnificent beauty of our facility when it is spotlighted by bright sunshine and blue skies.
Junior Camp finished their first round of league with a nail-biter-ending basketball game. The winners enjoyed celebratory Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream. Our Senior boys competed in a full day of competition followed by team practices as they prepare for the next round of intercamp competition.
I watched our counselors teach our youngest boys how to properly throw a baseball and field a grounder, our basketball counselors demonstrate the proper technique to box out and get a rebound, and our tennis counselors show great patience with younger boys who are developing their hand-eye coordination.
Acknowledging Independence Day, I thought all day about the good fortune we have living in the United States, aware of the incredible turmoil that exists around the world. Our boys run free and play without a care in the world, which is the dream of every parent. And yet, before the evening came to an end, I learned of an act of violence in the Naples community. A domestic dispute that has nothing to do with camp, yet still manages to hit home. How ironic that we are celebrating our independence, yet so many of us feel we have lost our true sense of freedom. Freedom to live without fear is something most of us have always taken for granted, but we now find ourselves living in a world where we have to be vigilant in a way we never did before.
As leaders of young children, it is imperative that we take our responsibility seriously and instill a sense of morality and decency that future generations will need to live in a world free from fear. I’m sure my email earlier tonight alarmed you, but as with everything we do, we want to be thoughtful and transparent. As you put your head on the pillow tonight, please know that your boys are safe and thriving.
