I’ve known Flying Cloud for half my life now. I don’t know
who, or where, I’d be if I hadn’t found this special summer community. Looking back, I see a confused boy walking into a clearing deep in the woods, surrounded by canvas and trees, and other kids looking more than a little lost in a world they didn’t know. I see helpers, warm welcomers and returners as nervous and excited to meet the newcomers as the newcomers are to meet them. By the time I saw the light of dawn flickering through the trees, I knew Flying Cloud was home.
There is so much beauty, hope and laughter at Flying Cloud. Some of my fondest memories have been made as a camper, counselor, program director and waterfront head at Flying Cloud; from chasing each other through the woods in a spirited game of Sticks or enjoying the birdsong and wind-rustled leaves in the silence of our company, to heartfelt appreciations spoken in the fading dusk. What I now understand is that Flying Could does not end in August, or at the Gravel Pit. The understanding and respect at the core of our community is not beholden to a time or place. FC lives in each person who strives to be their truest and best self. I endeavor to hold myself to these standards throughout the year. I want Flying Cloud to continue to be a place where everyone is welcome and included. The spirit of Farm & Wilderness doesn’t have to stay with a time or a place; we can all embody it in our own lives, every day.
This summer I look forward to welcoming old and new friends in my new role as Flying Cloud Director. I can’t wait for the joy and laughter to dance in the sky with the embers and flickering candles.