My gosh, do I hate camping. It’s just not my thing – I didn’t grow up camping, it wasn’t on my radar for most of my life – so – to be dropped into it as an adult is . . . shocking, to say the least. I love being outdoors hiking, beaching, getting that vitamin D but with the sweet, sweet knowledge that I will be returned (a few hours later) to the clean shower of my home . . . the washer and dryer. . . the beautiful scent of candles.
But alas . . . sometimes, it REALLY just isn’t about you. And this is one of those times.
When my husband and I met – maybe a year in – he asked me to spend the weekend at a camp that was run by his family and volunteers in Sanford, Michigan – I was not sure what I was getting into. But I knew I was going to be buddied up with a special needs camper and you basically just spend time with them – making sure they’re having fun and napping every day. So… yeah, that sounds like my jam – I’m in.
And it WAS pretty great – the campground and the area in Sanford is really lovely – the actual camp sits on a bluffed area overlooking the Sanford Lake. Together with our buddies and new friends we boated, made crafts, played games, got ready for a talent show, ate together, got ready for the day together, napped and were fast friends almost immediately. I loved it… ok, I cried the first night because I was sleeping on a cot and it was not the greatest (but… I survived).
Beyond that – what it gave back to me – on a deeper level – a level of Gratitude and Perspective – was far greater than I could have ever imagined. Showing a bit more patience and understanding in our time together with people – helping more – being of assistance – showing compassion and kindness. These are all in abundance during this weekend and all around you. The camp is absolutely free to the campers and volunteers – it sustains through donations and fundraisers. And that reminder of how to be a better human… well, that is also absolutely free.
This was my 8th year at Sanford Lake Special Needs Camp. The 21st for my husband – it’s hard to describe how spending just a few days not thinking about anything other than what this very special human wants to do – gives so much back. It is in giving that we receive. Those words could not be more true.
To learn more about the Camp or to make a donation visit: SanfordLakeSpecialNeedsCamp.org
I’d love to hear from you in the comments below about an experience you thought that’d you hate that you realized was EXACTLY what you needed.
