What a journey we’ve had! The first half of the summer is coming to a close as I write this, and it’s a big deal. Since I last wrote, we’ve had a Naming Ceremony, deepened our connections with nature and had an opportunity to share about how this place has touched each of us.
At the second Naming Ceremony of the summer we honored seven campers and a counselor by bestowing upon them Flying Cloud names. Please join me in holding the following young men in the light:
Rhythm Root
Travels the Song
North Born
Smoke Tracker
Magpie Waterfall
Summer Lights the Sky
Earth Roll Laughter and our counselor Vince, now known as
Redwood.
Receiving their Flying Cloud names is a difficult process involving a full day and night of fasting and sitting in the woods in reflection, after which the campers build a huge fire and we dance the night away. To put their experience in perspective I told a story about a father/son team overcoming amazing challenges through their love for one another. If you haven’t heard of Team Hoyt, I encourage you to read up on their truly inspiring journey. Thinking of them helps me be a better director and I would love to know how it affects you as a parent.
Last night we had another very important ceremony that I want to share with you. At the beginning and end of each session we hold a Friendship Fire. At the end of the session the camper leader known as the Speaker asks “who speaks for Flying Cloud” at which point campers and staff speak out about how this place has touched them. Here are just a few of the heartfelt and deeply touching things campers said:
“This place is like something out of a movie, except that I get to be one of the characters and it’s even more awesome!”
“This place is like a second home to me.”
“Flying Cloud feels like home, and you are all my family.”
“Yesterday I realized that after being at Flying Cloud I could run and not even think about it.” (A statement met with cheers for his newfound strength.)
“Flying Cloud names give us something to live up to, and I can’t wait to see what we’ll each grow into.”
I know I’ll see many of you tomorrow for pickup and visiting day, and if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. This summer has been one of joyful connections with parents for me and I’m so thankful for all of your openness and the trust you’ve put in me and the Flying Cloud staff to help raise your boy into a wonderful young man.