Within the flurry of preparing things for fair, something unique, radical, and truly beautiful happens during the last week at Tamarack Farm. Campers and staff affirm and appreciate each other. It’s almost (but not quite) too much sweetness to stomach.
We have a few “villagers” who work at other parts of Farm & Wilderness but live and/or eat meals at our camp. One is a mom of a Timberlake camper who worked at the Barn Day Camp. She was sitting at a table with me and six campers at a meal this week when a staff person stood up to affirm one of the campers. During these affirmations, campers are appreciated not just for what they’ve accomplished, but for who they are; and our staff capture the essence of each camper so well. This F&W mom looked around at our table after the first affirmation was read and said, “Your parents would love to be here to hear this. It’s so much better than any graduation.” I agree, it’s not often that I get teary, but a few of these affirmations, including the one written for me by campers brought a little tear to eye.
I hope, as the summer is ending, this radical love and appreciation will spread to the circles where we all dwell as the colder months near.
— Amy Bowen, Tamarack Farm Director
