There’s an excitement around camp as we are all anticipating visiting day tomorrow. Campers have tucked away clean uniforms (some cleaner than others). Counselors are ensuring their facilities are ready. They take great pride in their programs and are making every effort to ensure this is a special day for our visitors.
We will blow the activity whistle at 9:30 AM, and our boys will head directly to their first activity where you will be directed to meet them. You’ll have the opportunity to witness your son’s routine firsthand and see how much he accomplishes in a day at camp.
I love visiting day. I am very proud of your boys and how much they’ve grown in the last four weeks, as I am also proud of our staff and the dedication they put into keeping your boys safe.
I love sharing this story of a visiting day incident that took place with my wife, Joan, and my son, Jack. Many years ago, Joan entered Jack’s bunk during rest hour; and, as she went to see the cubbies, she noticed the shelf overflowing with clothing balled up in one large, messy pile.
With both of her hands, Joan reached deep into the back of the cubby and pulled out all of the clothing in one fell swoop, watching it land on the floor. As Joan picked up each item one at a time, she folded them, placing them neatly back into the cubby. Jack stood by her, watching. In a stage whisper, Joan commented that Jack needed to be more organized, take responsibility for his personal items, and be more accountable in the future.
As she folded the last Takajo t-shirt and placed it neatly at the top of the pile, my wife looked at Jack and asked, “Now, what do you have to say for yourself?”
Promptly, Jack looked his mother in the eye, answering, “That’s not my cubby.”
Jack is now entering his junior year at the University of Michigan, and I can confidently say that the trajectory of his life wasn’t impacted by his mother’s involvement in his cubby (or someone else’s) on visiting day.
Your boys are thriving. While they appreciate your support, they’ve tried many activities, been pushed outside their comfort zones, accomplished great feats, and managed challenging situations without your personal involvement.
I can’t wait to witness so many first embraces as I know you’ve missed your boys terribly.
Wishing you a happy, joyous visiting day.
