I can't believe my first week of camp is over. :) It has been an amazing experience. Last Sunday I had a hard time leaving home and saying goodbye to my family, but by Monday I had almost bonded completely with my group of staffies. We've gone hiking, camping, rafting, caving, low ropes coursing, high ropes coursing, and pinacle adventuring (that's not exactly how you'd say it, but you get the picture). ;) We've been focusing and learning a lot about emptying our cup of pride and sin and letting the Lord fill us up. We've also been challenged to step out of the boat. We're reading a book called, "If you want to walk on water, you've got to get out of the boat." It has been good for me to identify my boats of safety and security, and then step out of those comfort zones and walk in faith.
The biggest boat to get out of for me this week has been the high ropes course. I got up there, thank goodness, without too much trouble. But once I had done the first element, I was determined to go right back and just go down the zipline and be done. Much to my dismay, Taylor came to me to be my partner and force me to go on and do more of the course. I got mad at him and cried. I was so scared and frustrated. But he continued to grab my hands and look me in the eye saying, "Louie, this is your boat. You've got to get out of it."
I answered, "Taylor (yes, I used his real name 'cause I was mad. I owe several pushups because of that.), I don't want to! I can just do it next time I'm up here." By this time I had tears streaming down my face.
Taylor replied, "No. You're going to do it now! If you don't, you won't be able to do it later."
So, as I shook and cried, Taylor and I went on to the next element and the next on the ropes course. We kept going until we had finished the whole course...something I had never done and had never wanted to do.
What did I learn, you may ask, from this horrifying experience? Well, several things...
First of all, I relearned what I learned last time I was on the ropes course. That the strength of the harness doesn't change due to the height of the course. In the same way, the strength of my God doesn't change due to the differences of my situations or circumstances. My God will hold me safe the same.
The second thing I learned was that fear of heights is definitely one of my boats that I need to get out of. I never thought that my boat would be something so small as that, but I was reminded that the small steps I take to get out of my boats will strengthen me for the next times I have to get out of others.
Finally, I was reminded that I really love my brother. I'm so glad I did the whole ropes course even though it was hard and terrifying and against my will. He challenged me, helped me, and encouraged me through it all. I'm so thankful for him!
Well, that and all the other challenges I have faced this week have really stretched me. I wish I could include all I've learned in this letter, but there just isn't room.
I have met so many great close friends here. I've only known them for a week, but it feels like I've known them for my whole life. :) Actually, one of the girls writes lyrics to songs, so I helped her put one to music this week. And another girl wants me to teach her how to play worship songs on the piano. So that is exciting!
We're getting ready for the first week of camp which starts tomorrow. We're all excited, but it will be a change from our awesome week just as staff. I'm really looking forward to spending time with campers and being an example to them. I also have the opportunity to help lead worship for this camp.
Well, I'd better get going. I miss you all and love you! Have a blessed Sunday. =D
Your Louie
1 Corinthians 4:2 - "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful."
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